CT-guided percutaneous drainage of an anterior mediastinal abscess with a 16 F catheter

Abstract

We report a case of anterior mediastinal abscess treated by percutaneous drainage under computed tomography (CT) guidance. The relationships of the abscess to the adjacent organs were clearly delineated by an intravenous injection of contrast material, and the drain was inserted between the sternum and the vasa thoracica interna. Selection of this route and the choice of a large-bore catheter (16 F) are discussed.