The reliability of the results of ultrasound detection of fluid collections in the early postceliotomy period

The results of this prospective clinical study have demonstrated a low rate of false-positive abdominal sonographic findings in patients undergoing routine studies the seventh day after abdominal surgical procedures. It is concluded that any intraperitoneal fluid collection detected by ultrasound examination in a patient postoperatively demonstrating signs and symptoms of abdominal sepsis (fever, leukocytosis, pain, tenderness, persistent ileus, excessive drainage, wound changes and so on), should be considered as the source, as abdominal fluid collections do not persist as a 'normal' part of the healing process one week after extensive biliary tract or colonic operations. Sonography is a highly specific procedure for the detection of abdominal abscesses after the seventh postoperative day. The type of procedure, type of incision, type of closure, presence of drains, history of prior intraperitoneal surgical procedures and operative blood loss did not affect the accuracy of the test. Postoperative ultrasonography is a specific, sensitive and accurate test and is widely applicable to almost all groups of patients.