[Pyogenic liver abscess: interventional versus surgical therapy: technique, results and indications]

For the therapy planning of liver abscesses both etiological factors and clinical symptoms have to be evaluated, with visualization via ultrasound, CT, or MRI. The indication for a percutaneous abscess drainage (PAD) is a solitary or complicated abscess with a safe drainage access. The success rate varies between 70 and 93%, the mortality rate between 1 and 11%. For complex abscesses, surgical therapeutic techniques (OSD) or liver resection have to be discussed. The OSD success rate varies between 51 and 70%, the mortality rate between 11 and 43%. In summary PAD is characterized by low complication and mortality rates, reduced risk of anesthesia, low cost, and short stay in the hospital.