[Computed tomography guided percutaneous aspiration and drainage of thoracic and abdominal fluid collections...

Computed tomography can be of value in guiding percutaneous aspiration and drainage of thoracic and abdominal fluid collections of various origins and localizations. Puncture-aspiration is of diagnostic importance when computed tomography findings are non-pathognomonic. Techniques employed for percutaneous drainage of infected fluid are described. Puncture-aspirations and percutaneous drainage of infected fluid are described. Puncture-aspirations and percutaneous drainage under computed tomography guidance are free from major complications, and represent a more valid therapeutic method than surgery, being simpler to perform and supplying identical results.