Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Draining an Abscess
Current as of: October 6, 2017
A pelvic abscess may be drained by needle aspiration. A needle is inserted through the abdominal or vaginal wall into the abscess. The fluid filling the abscess is drawn out (aspirated) with a syringe connected to the needle. A pelvic ultrasound or a computed tomography (CT) scan is used to guide the needle into the abscess. A tube (catheter) may be left in for a few days to allow the abscess to drain completely.
Aspiration of an abscess may be done with a local or general anesthesia. You may go home the same day, unless more treatment is needed or you are very ill.
Aspiration may be considered when the abscess:
If your health professional recommends aspiration, ask about abscess recurrence rates and other risks of the procedure.
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kevin C. Kiley, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Current as ofOctober 6, 2017
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