A brief literature review of catheter-based drainage of perirectal abscesses: A potential alternative to traditional surgical drainage

Abstract

Perirectal abscesses most commonly occur as a result of bacteria entering the anal crypt and invading the anal duct and gland. Multiple complications can occur with perirectal abscesses; the most common complication is the formation of a perirectal fistula. The primary goal of this study is to explore the use of computed tomography- or ultrasound-guided percutaneous catheter-based drainage of perirectal abscesses in comparison to traditional incision and drainage. We conducted a PubMed search for “rectal abscess” and “perianal abscess,” which yielded a total of 908 articles. We included articles in English with no time restrictions. All articles were reviewed for their relevance. The relevant articles were cross-referenced for additional articles. The traditional treatment for perirectal abscesses is adequate surgical drainage with antibiotics as an adjunct. The use of catheter-based percutaneous drainage as an alternative lacks evidence in the current available literature. Ultrasound- and computed tomography-guided percutaneous drainage has been the standard of care for small, radiologically accessible diverticular abscesses. Ultrasound- and computed tomography-guided percutaneous drainage should be considered for the adequate treatment of uncomplicated pelvic and intraabdominal abscesses.