Related Experiment Videos
Computed tomographic abscessogram: a useful tool for evaluation of percutaneous abscess drainage
M Bélair1, D Gianfelice, L Lepanto
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, QC.
Summary
Computed tomographic abscessograms (CTABs) help identify fistulae in abscesses, influencing treatment decisions. This imaging technique improves management of patients undergoing percutaneous abscess drainage (PAD).
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Interventional Radiology
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Percutaneous abscess drainage (PAD) is a common procedure for managing abscesses.
- Identifying underlying fistulous communications is crucial for successful PAD.
- Computed tomographic abscessograms (CTABs) involve contrast injection via a drainage catheter followed by CT imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of CTABs in managing patients undergoing PAD.
- To assess CTABs' ability to detect fistulae and guide treatment decisions.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 169 patients with 203 abscesses who underwent PAD.
- 432 CTABs were performed over a 50-month period.
- CTABs were evaluated for their impact on treatment, fistula detection, and visualization of the septic process.
Main Results:
- CTABs detected fistulous communications in 32% of abscesses.
- In 92% of detected fistulae, CTABs established the abscess etiology.
- Fistulae prolonged drainage time (20.5 vs. 11.9 days) and lowered success rates if drainage ceased before fistula closure (72% vs. 90%).
- CTABs influenced catheter manipulation decisions in 14% of patients.
Conclusions:
- CTABs provide critical information on the pathologic process and fistula presence.
- CTABs significantly influence interventional treatment strategies for PAD.
- Utilizing CTABs can optimize patient management and improve outcomes in percutaneous abscess drainage.