Percutaneous drainage of postappendectomy abscesses complicated by enteric communication

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Postappendectomy abscesses can develop enteric fistulae, complicating treatment.
• Enteric fistulae present a challenge for standard abscess management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous drainage for postappendectomy abscesses with enteric fistulae.
• To describe modifications in technique and management for such cases.

Main Methods:

• Percutaneous drainage was performed on four patients with postappendectomy abscesses and enteric fistulae.
• Sinograms were utilized to identify the site of communication (cecum or small bowel).

Main Results:

• Complete cure was achieved in three out of four patients using percutaneous drainage.
• One patient required subsequent surgery after 7 days of catheter drainage.
• Sinograms revealed communication to the cecum in three patients and the small bowel in one.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous drainage is a viable treatment for postappendectomy abscesses with enteric fistulae.
• A modified technique involving longer-term drainage is crucial for successful outcomes in communicating abscesses.