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Sonographic detection of a stitch abscess
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei.
Journal of Clinical Ultrasound : JCU
|May 8, 1998
Summary
A stitch abscess developed 6 months after Achilles tendon repair. Ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic mass with echogenic dots, confirming the diagnosis surgically.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
- Pathology
Background:
- Achilles tendon rupture requires surgical repair.
- Primary end-to-end suture is a common surgical technique.
- Postoperative complications can occur months after initial surgery.
Observation:
- A patient presented with painful swelling and sinus discharge 6 months post-Achilles tendon repair.
- Physical examination revealed a palpable lump with discharge.
- Sonography identified an 8 x 6 mm hypoechoic mass containing two echogenic dots.
Findings:
- The sonographic findings were highly suggestive of a stitch abscess.
- Surgical exploration confirmed the presence of a stitch abscess.
- The abscess was associated with the previous Achilles tendon repair site.
Implications:
- Stitch abscesses are a potential delayed complication following Achilles tendon repair.
- Sonography is a valuable tool for diagnosing stitch abscesses.
- Prompt surgical intervention is necessary for managing stitch abscesses.