[Radiologic diagnosis of intra-abdominal abscesses by stepwise use of imaging procedures]

Abstract

Plain radiographs of the abdomen in supine and left decubitus position were combined with additional contrast medium examinations, ultrasonography and computed tomography and used for diagnosis in 47 patients with surgically verified abdominal abscesses. Typical abscess signs were analysed to establish the stepwise use of imaging procedures. Diagnosis of an intraperitoneal or retroperitoneal abscess can be made in over 50% of the cases by accurate interpretation of abdominal plain films. If combined with ultrasonography, diagnosis is possible in even almost 90% of the cases. Computed tomography may additionaly show the exact localisation and extension of the lesion and is mainly used in planning further surgical treatment.