Delayed recurrence of postoperative intra-abdominal abscess: an unusual case and review of the literature

Abstract

Background: Although intra-abdominal abscess is one of the major complications of abdominal surgery, the literature documents only a few cases of recurrence after a long asymptomatic period.

Methods: Case report and literature review.

Results: A 66-year-old woman developed a primary subphrenic abscess secondary to anastomotic leakage after total gastrectomy. Percutaneous drainage succeeded in evacuating the abscess cavity, and broad-spectrum antibiotics apparently eradicated the infection. However, a recurrent subphrenic abscess appeared eight years later with no intervening signs or symptoms.

Conclusions: The unexpected outcome in this case may call into question the appropriate follow-up period after treatment for subphrenic abscess. Our experience indicates that clinicians should be aware of the possibility of rare delayed recurrence of intra-abdominal abscess.