Interventional radiology: an alternative to operative drainage of post-traumatic abscesses

Twenty-seven patients with post-traumatic abscesses treated by percutaneous drainage using radiologic localization and guidance were reviewed. Twenty-six patients were successfully drained and operation was avoided in twenty-one. Our results, which parallel those previously reported, indicate that radiologic drainage is safe and effective. Associated with lower rates of mortality, morbidity, and recurrence, it should be attempted before surgical reexploration in most situations after diagnostic procedures have demonstrated an accessible collection.