Transrectal catheter drainage of deep abdominal and pelvic abscesses using combined ultrasonography and fluoroscopy.

Objective: To describe our experience with transrectal drainage of deep abdominal or pelvic abscesses guided by ultrasonography and fluoroscopy.

Methods: Open study. Methods: Teaching hospital, Sweden. Methods: Eight seriously ill patients with deep abdominal or pelvic abscesses. Methods: Ultrasonographic and fluoroscopic transrectal drainage. Methods: Clinical follow-up.

Results: Eight patients (2 septic, 2 with high fever, and 2 with moderate fever) were effectively and safely drained without general anaesthesia. Their condition improved considerably within hours after drainage. Three patients had recurrent abscesses as a result of the underlying disease. The drainage overcame the sepsis in two patients and allowed a later elective operation.

Conclusions: Transrectal ultrasonographic and fluoroscopic drainage is an effective and safe method for treatment of deep abdominal or pelvic abscesses in seriously ill patients.