Abdominal Abscesses
An abdominal abscess is a collection of pus inside the abdomen. It may develop after surgery, an infection, bowel perforation or inflammation in an abdominal organ.
Symptoms
Fever, abdominal pain, tenderness, nausea, poor appetite and general weakness. Severe infection can spread into the bloodstream.
How interventional radiology treats it
Image-guided drainage uses ultrasound or CT to place a catheter into the abscess. Pus is drained and sent for laboratory testing to help select antibiotics. The drain remains until the collection improves. Some abscesses cannot be safely drained this way and may require surgery or other treatment.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.