Nipple Duct Excision

Nipple duct excision is the surgical removal of a milk duct affected by a tumor or presenting nipple discharge. Nipple duct excision is often used to treat an intraductal papilloma.

Intraductal papilloma is a small, benign tumor that forms in a milk duct in the breast. The tumor, which is made of gland and fibrous tissue and blood vessels, most commonly occurs in women between ages 35 and 55. It can cause breast enlargement, lumps, nipple discharge, and sometimes pain or discomfort in the breast. The size of the lump depends on the size of the duct where it grows.

The tumor and affected milk duct are typically removed by surgery under general anesthesia. Depending upon the extent of the surgery, an overnight stay in the hospital may be required. The procedure will leave a small wound near the nipple, but the scar should fade over time.

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