SURGIAL VERSUS ULTRASOUND GUIDED ASPIRATION OR DRAINAGE OF DEEP NECK SPACE ABSCESSES: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Deep neck space abscesses are considered to be one of the life-threatening emergencies in the head and neck region. Traditionally, the main treatment for deep neck space abscesses was surgical drainage with sufficient antimicrobial treatment. Intraoral or external approaches can be used for surgical drainage of neck abscesses. Despite the effectiveness of these procedures, they have some remarkable disadvantages. General anesthesia is required, which add a considerable risk for patients especially those with bad general condition. Intraoral approaches have their limitations like poor visualization and airway compromise. External approaches usually necessitate neck incisions and exploration, which exposes patients to a risk of injury to vital neurovascular structures and a cosmetically unpleasant scar.Recent literature suggested a less invasive and an effective alternative to surgical incision and drainage by performing ultrasound-guided drainage of neck abscesses. It abolishes most of the drawbacks of incision and drainage and has been proven to be effective in certain cases.