Morel-Lavallée syndrome: successful surgical approach, a case report

Abstract

Introduction: Morel-Lavallée syndrome (MLS) is a tearing injury to the deep fascia and subcutaneous cellular tissue caused by shearing. The incidence of MLS has been estimated to be about 0.7% in patients who are victims of traffic accidents. The diagnosis is made by clinical examination, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. The syndrome has been classified into six imaging types according to chronicity, tissue composition and MRI appearance. These lesions have an infection rate of 46%, which can be life-threatening and therefore require timely management. Methods: 20-year-old male patient who suffers traffic accident as a cyclist, where he was dragged by a cargo vehicle generating friction burns of first, second and third degree in left hemibody associated with hematoma formation in the lower extremities that conditioned the appearance of SML, through the application of sclerotherapy, bursectomy and the novel technique of incisions in "grid" the resolution of chronic seromas was achieved. Results: after a judicious study of the clinical history, diagnostic images and physical examination it was possible to document that it was a case of a Morel Lavallée syndrome which is very rare in the population making its diagnosis difficult, however after a long time, multiple interventions by the surgical team and the establishment of hybrid techniques in the management of this pathology a very good result both functional and aesthetic was achieved. Conclusions: this case presents a novel technique in the treatment of SML in a private health center, with unusual occurrence in post-traumatic wounds, which despite early management can progress to its late stage and generate serious complications. Early diagnosis and proper management are important to avoid serious complications in patients with SML.