Image-guided posterior transperineal drainage for presacral abscess: An analysis of 21 patients

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of posterior transperineal drainage in patients with presacral abscess.

Materials and method: The records of 21 patients (14 men, 7 women; mean age: 62.1±10 years) who underwent posterior transperineal drainage for the treatment of presacral abscess, either using fluoroscopy or computed tomography guidance, were retrospectively reviewed. Data were analysed with respect to technical success, tolerance, duration of drainage, complications and short-term outcome.

Results: A total of 28 posterior transperineal drainage procedures of presacral abscesses were performed in 21 patients, either using fluoroscopy (24/28; 86%) or computed tomography (4/28; 14%) guidance. Technical success rate was 89% (25/28 procedures) and clinical success rate 88% (22/25 technically successful procedures). Transperineal catheter drainage was maintained for 3-105 days (mean 31 days±26 [SD]). After three procedures (3/28; 11%) patients reported discomfort. No major complications were reported.

Conclusion: This study suggests that posterior transperineal drainage is an effective, safe and well-tolerated procedure for the treatment of presacral abscess.

Keywords: Fluoroscopy; Image-guided drainage; Pelvic abscess; Percutaneous drainage; Presacral abscess.