Endoanal ultrasound in perirectal abscesses.

INTRODUCTION

Transrectal ultrasound is a useful exploration in the assessment of local spread of rectal tumors.

AIM

The aim of this study has been the knowledge of the results of transrectal ultrasound in perirectal abscesses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty patients suffering from perianal septic disease were examined with endoanal echography before surgical approach. The endorectal probe used was initially of 5 MHz and in the last 25 patients of 7.5 MHz.

RESULTS

The examination could not be done in 8 patients because severe pain originated by the introduction of the probe in the anal canal. The echographic findings show the exact location and extension of the abscesses as confirmed by the surgical exploration. In three patients we suspected a perirectal abscess due to fever and anal pain but the anal exploration was normal; the ultrasonography showed the collection in all patients and two of them were treated by echoguided drainage.

CONCLUSIONS

Transrectal ultrasonography localizes and defines the extension of perirectal abscesses. It is a very important diagnostic and therapeutic tool in patients with clinical presumption, but not confirmation, of what kind of abscesses.