CT findings in rectal cuff abscess following surgery for Hirschsprung disease

A rectal cuff abscess following corrective surgery for Hirschsprung disease is an uncommon but serious complication requiring prompt diagnostic and therapeutic attention. Plain films and examinations using contrast medium are insensitive to detection of an abscess due to surgical disruption of the normal anatomy. Computed tomography may be easy to interpret if the corrective surgery performed is well understood. An explanation of the Soave procedure and a case report are presented demonstrating the value of CT in examination of the postoperative pelvis. Knowledge that a cuff abscess following a Soave procedure for Hirschsprung disease can be easily detected by CT will aid in the early diagnosis and treatment, preventing long-term sequelae.