Use of intraoperative ultrasound for localizing difficult parapharyngeal space abscesses in children

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2007 Mar;71(3):375-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2006.10.018. Epub 2006 Dec 22.

Abstract

While treatment of parapharyngeal and deep-space neck abscesses has progressed rapidly due to improvements in diagnostic imaging and medical therapy, surgical drainage remains the mainstay of treatment for larger and medically unresponsive abscesses. In many cases the intricate and delicate anatomy in children represents a challenging situation for the surgeon, particularly if he or she is not experienced in the care of the pediatric population. We present a novel idea used in the surgical management of parapharyngeal space abscesses in three children less that 6 years of age, in whom intraoperative ultrasound was used as an additional tool to locate and successfully drain the abscess.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abscess / diagnostic imaging*
  • Abscess / surgery*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intraoperative Care / instrumentation*
  • Male
  • Neck
  • Pharyngeal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pharyngeal Diseases / surgery*
  • Suction / methods
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Ultrasonography