Percutaneous debridement of complex pyogenic liver abscesses.

The author's approach and technique in the treatment of complex liver abscesses that persisted or recurred following percutaneous drainage are described. Six patients were treated by percutaneous debridement using an instrument specially designed for that purpose. Four patients were chronically ill but stable, while the other two were septic, hypotensive and considered to be life threatened. All patients had primary pyogenic abscesses. Four had demonstrated mixed bacterial flora consisting of E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus and gram-positive cocci and two were caused by E. coli only. Contrast enhanced CT of the abdomen in all cases revealed multiloculated or septated abscesses containing large central debris and peripheral shell or halo of compromised hepatic parenchyma. Debridement was successful in all cases, resulting in complete healing within 12 days. Follow-up for 1-4.5 years revealed no recurrences. Three cases of infected tumors of the liver were referred for treatment. CT findings in these cases demonstrated a well developed external capsule and internal septations, and the absence of a surrounding halo of compromised parenchyma distinguishes them from primary abscesses. This preliminary experience makes the authors to conclude that percutaneous debridement of pyogenic liver abscesses is a safe and curative procedure in selected cases of life-threatening chronic liver abscesses.