Aspiration of liver abscess: a study of 200 cases at Liaquat medical college, Jamshora, Hyderabad, Pakistan

ABSTRACT

To assess the various risk factors and prognosis of ultrasound guided aspiration of liver abscesses. Design: Study of 200 cases admitted in Surgical Unit-Ill and Medical wards of Liaquat Medical College Hospital over a period of five years [Jan. 1991-Dec. 1995]. Surgical Unit-Ill and Medical wards-I-II-III-IV of Liaquat Medical College Jamshoro, Hyderabad. 200 patients diagnosed to have liver abscesses during a period of five years and admitted in surgical unit-III and Medical wards of Liaquat Medical College Jamshoro. Needle was successfully inserted in all 200 cases in first attempt. No preparation was required in 191 patients, while the remaining 9 patients were children below seven years of age, therefore the procedure was carried out after sedation. In majority of patients the entire pus was aspirated from the cavity in single aspiration, while few needed 2nd or 3rd aspiration. All abscess in this study were cured without open surgery. The use of ultrasound guided aspiration is much easier, economical and causes much less distress to the patients as compared to surgical removal. Moreover side effects of open surgery and anaesthesia are avoided