Comparative evaluation of ultrasound-guided versus operative drainage for pediatric appendicular abscess: Effectiveness, safety and clinical outcomes.

The optimal management of appendicular abscess in children remains a challenge, with ongoing debate over the most effective treatment approach. Therefore, it is of interest to compare ultrasound-guided drainage (UD) and operative drainage (OD) for the treatment of appendicular abscess in children. Sixty patients were analyzed, with 30 undergoing OD and 30 undergoing UD. The UD group had significantly lower pain scores, body temperature and white blood cell counts, along with a shorter hospital stay compared with the OD group. Post-procedural complications were more frequent in the OD group. Thus, we show that ultrasound-guided drainage is a safe and superior alternative to operative drainage for appendicular abscess in children.