Pelvic Drainage: Image Guidance and Technique

Management of pelvic abscesses and collections can be challenging in terms of their localization and subsequent access for purposes of aspiration or drainage. Although formerly the territory of surgeons, improvements in imaging technology and applied techniques now enable interventional radiologists to perform percutaneous or endocavitary drainage of even the most difficult abscesses. Various combinations of imaging modality and route of access can be used depending on the location of the abscess, individual patient constraints, and operator preference. This article focuses on the different ultrasound-guided techniques used for pelvic drainage, including difficult access, and, equally important, discusses when it is not appropriate.