Synergistic strategies for comprehensive management of Morel-Lavallee lesion
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Musculoskeletal Surgery and Research
Abstract
Objectives: Morel-Lavallee lesions are soft-tissue injuries characterized by fluid collections resulting from the separation of the dermis from the underlying fascia due to shearing forces. These injuries are not so uncommon and pose challenges in their management. They often go undiagnosed or are diagnosed late, particularly when occurring without accompanying bony injuries. The Morel-Lavalle lesion are typically found in areas rich in adipose tissue such as hips, buttocks and thighs resulting from tangential forces that cause seperation of soft tissues from the underlying fascia leading to seroma formation and potential skin necrosis. Despite their low incidence, they cause significant treatment dilemmas. Conservative management and minimally invasive approaches have shown limited success, with surgical intervention often necessary. However, surgical options carry risks such as neurovascular injury and skin necrosis and no standardized treatment protocol exists. This paper aimed to propose a comprehensive treatment approach that combines extensive debridement, tissue glue application for adhesion promotion, under-vision suturing/quilting, and the use of customized compression garments to manage these lesions successfully. Methods: Eleven patients were included in this study. All of them underwent debridement, quilting, and the use of tissue glue. Postoperatively, a customized pressure garment was used for a minimum period of 1 month. Results: All of them were successfully managed with the combined approach, with no recurrence. One patient had wound site necrosis, which healed by secondary intention. Conclusion: Our combined approach aims to address the complex nature of Morel-Lavallee lesions, offering a combined strategy that emphasizes the importance of a tailored, multifaceted approach in managing these simple yet resilient injuries.
First Page
470
Last Page
474
DOI
10.25259/JMSR_301_2025
Publication Date
10-1-2025
Recommended Citation
Hegde, Atmananda S.; Shetty, Krishnaprasad; Kawari, Sowbhagyalaxmi R.; and Mane, Prajwal P., "Synergistic strategies for comprehensive management of Morel-Lavallee lesion" (2025). Open Access archive. 12467.
https://impressions.manipal.edu/open-access-archive/12467