Abscess Drainage — Expert, Minimally Invasive Treatment

Ultrasound or CT-guided needle and catheter drainage of infected fluid collections (abscesses) in the abdomen, pelvis, chest—or wherever they occur.

Dr. Jeffrey Apo

What Is Abscess Drainage?

An abscess is a localized pocket of infected fluid causing pain, swelling, or systemic symptoms like fever and chills. Percutaneous abscess drainage is a minimally invasive procedure where Dr. Apo uses imaging guidance to place a needle directly into the abscess, then leaves a small catheter in place to continuously drain the infection. This method provides faster recovery and lower risk compared to open surgical drainage.

Abscess Drainage

Who Is It For?

This treatment is ideal for patients who have:

  • Infected fluid collections in the abdomen, pelvis, chest, liver, spleen, or deep muscle (e.g., psoas abscesses)
  • Postsurgical collections that fail to resolve with medication alone
  • Conditions such as diverticulitis-related abscess, appendiceal abscess, or subphrenic collections

Key Benefits:

  • Minimally invasive — only a small skin nick is needed
  • Gentle recovery — often outpatient or short hospital stay
  • Highly effective — success rates exceed 80% in many cases
  • Direct relief from infection, pain, and swelling
  • Imaging guidance ensures precision and avoids complications

Common Uses:

  • Abdominal and pelvic abscesses (like from appendicitis or surgery)
  • Liver or splenic abscesses
  • Deep collections such as psoas or subphrenic abscesses
  • Chest cavity abscesses (empyema) or other fluid pockets

Why Choose Dr. Apo?

Hospital Affiliations

Clinic Schedule

 Olistico Health Manila
Clinic Schedule

Unit 404, West East Center
1332-1336 Taft Ave, Ermita, Manila
Strictly by Appointment
No Walk-ins Allowed

Tuesday 3PM – 4PM
Friday 3PM – 4PM
Saturday 3PM – 4PM
Olistico Health - West East Center Manila

FAQs: Abscess Drainage

Dr. Apo will ask about your medications and may request bloodwork and imaging beforehand. Fasting is often required.

You’ll stay comfortable with local anesthesia (and possibly mild sedation). A thin catheter is inserted guided by imaging; you’ll feel pressure but minimal discomfort.

You’re usually observed for a few hours or overnight. Drainage often continues for several days. Removal occurs once fluid stops and your symptoms resolve.

Still have questions about a procedure?

Our team is here to help.