Closed percutaneous catheter drainage of a cervical abscess.

The advantages offered by a percutaneous catheter system are: The procedure is done using only local anesthesia. Computed tomography is used for exquisite anatomical detail and pinpoint guidance. If required, aspiration, irrigation, and dependent or suction drainage can all be done. Isolation of purulent material from the skin and site of drainage is accomplished. A true anaerobic culture specimen is obtainable with the initial aspiration. The esthetic results, are superior to surgical management. Percutaneous abscess drainage should thus be seriously considered as an alternative to surgery in the treatment of head and neck abscesses.