Peritoneoscopy in the diagnosis of liver abscess. Experience with 108 cases during a 10-year period

Among 4569 cases of peritoneoscopy performed in a period of 10 years (1972-1981), 108 patients with liver abscesses were encountered. The diagnosis of hepatic abscess was made on the basis of gross liver inspection and confirmed or disproved by needle puncture biopsy, histopathologic study, or surgery. Peritoneoscopy is a valuable procedure for the diagnosis of liver abscess. Liver aspiration under direct vision during peritoneoscopy yields more dependable material for the diagnosis of liver abscess than blind liver aspiration. Moreover, during peritoneoscopy one can choose more accurately the site for the insertion of the aspirating needle.