Splenic Abscess: Successful Treatment by Open Drainage

Abstract

Splenic abscess is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening disease. Earlier, splenectomy along with antibiotics was the established treatment for splenic abscess. However, recently there is a shifting trend towards drainage of splenic abscess either percutaneously under ultrasound guidance or by open drainage. By this approach, splenectomy and its detrimental effects of increased chances of post-operative infections are prevented. We report a case of splenic abscess, which was successfully managed by open drainage with preservation of the spleen, after the attempts of ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration had failed.