Percutaneous drainage and alcoholization of hepatic abscesses in five dogs and a cat

Hepatic abscesses are rare and difficult to diagnose in dogs and cats. Ultrasonographic examination is essential to thoroughly examine hepatic abnormalities, and it may also help in the localization of hepatic abscesses. In this retrospective study, five dogs and one cat with focal hepatic lesions compatible with a hepatic abscess were treated with percutaneous ultrasound-assisted drainage and alcoholization using 95% ethanol. The procedure was performed rapidly under injectable anesthesia and provided excellent results in all animals. No complications or relapses were noted for 120 days following the procedure. The technique of percutaneous ultrasound-assisted drainage and alcoholization of hepatic abscesses in the dog and cat is also described. © 2005 American Animal Hospital Association.