Fluid collections
Abnormal fluid collections can be due to infection (abscess), lymphatic damage (lymphocele), leakage of serous fluid, bile or urine (seroma, biloma or urinoma), among other causes. These fluid collections often require drainage for definitive treatment.
An interventional radiologist uses ultrasound or CT guidance to place a drain into the abnormal collection.
Conscious sedation
Bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding structures
One to two hours of bed rest
Drain output should be monitored, and the drain can usually be removed once symptoms have resolved and drainage has significantly slowed. Drains may require intermittent flushing, depending on the clinical situation.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our IR physicians, please call 310-481-7545.