Postoperative Surgicel mimicking abscesses following cholecystectomy and liver biopsy

In postoperative patients presenting with abdominal pain or fever, a computed tomography (CT) finding of gas in the operative site raises concern for abscess but can be mimicked by the normal postoperative appearance of oxidized regenerated cellulose (Surgicel). Information about the operative use of Surgicel and its location is important for accurate CT interpretation of postoperative studies. This case illustrates a scenario in which knowledge of the use of Surgicel offered an explanation for the CT findings, resulting in successful conservative management.