Drainage Procedure

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.

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Dr. Jeffrey P. Apo, Interventional Radiologist in Metro Manila

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 — image-guided procedure by Dr. Jeffrey Apo, Interventional Radiologist in Manila

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 abscessesDeep collections such as psoas or subphrenic abscessesChest cavity abscesses (empyema) or other fluid pockets

Dr. Jeffrey P. Apo, Interventional Radiologist

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Local

Anesthesia

Outpatient

Setting

Same day

Recovery

Clinic Hours

Weekly Schedule

Monday

1:00 – 5:00 PMFe del Mundo Medical Center

Tuesday

2:00 – 5:00 PMOlistico Health Manila

Wednesday

12:00 NN – 2:00 PMSan Juan de Dios Hospital

Thursday

9:00 AM – 12:00 NNPhilippine General Hospital

Friday

12:00 NN – 2:00 PMSan Juan de Dios Hospital

Saturday

10:00 AM – 12:00 NNPhilippine General Hospital

3:00 – 4:00 PMOlistico Health Manila

Strictly by Appointment · No Walk-ins

Primary clinic

Olistico Health Manila

Unit 404, West East Center, 1332-1336 Taft Ave, Ermita, Manila

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FAQs: Abscess Drainage

How should I prepare?

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

What happens during the procedure?

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.

What should I expect afterward?

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.

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