What is a subphrenic space?
The Subphrenic spaces are “potential spaces” below the diaphragm produced by the peritoneal folds around the liver (figs. a, b and c). The spaces are all intraperitoneal with the exception of the small extraperitoneal compartment between the diaphragm and the bare area of the liver (figs. b and c).
What is a subphrenic abscess?
Subphrenic abscesses represent infected collections bounded above by the diaphragm, and below by the transverse colon and mesocolon, and the omentum. They typically arise from abdominal surgery, trauma, or local inflammation in the space between the liver, intestines, and lungs, making drainage a challenge.
How many subphrenic spaces are there?
Therefore, it may be seen that above the liver there are only two sub- phrenic spaces separated by the falciform ligament. These may properly be designated right and left subphrenic spaces.
What is the clinical significance of subphrenic recess?
Clinical significance Both the right and left subphrenic spaces have been known to be sites of fluid accumulation during pathological or postoperative processes. After a right abdominal infection, it is not uncommon for fluid to accumulate in the right subphrenic space.
What is subphrenic structure?
Anatomical Parts The subphrenic space is a peritoneal space between the anterior part of the liver and the diaphragm, separated into right and left by the falciform ligament, and postero-superiorly bounded by the coronary ligament.
How is a subphrenic abscess diagnosed?
A subphrenic abscess is not a rare cause of unilateral elevation of the diaphragm following abdominal surgery. It is usually accompanied by pleural effusion. Chest radiographs alone may confirm the diagnosis when localized collections of air are demonstrated below the diaphragm (see Fig.
How subphrenic abscess is usually diagnosed?
How do you drain a subphrenic abscess?
The current standard treatment strategy for intra-abdominal abscess is percutaneous imaging-guided drainage. However, in cases of subphrenic abscess, it is important to avoid passing the drainage route through the thoracic cavity, as this can lead to respiratory complications.
Why are subphrenic abscesses more common on the right side?
The right side is more common due to the high frequency of ruptured appendices and perforated duodenal ulcers.
Which incision is made in subphrenic abscess?
Two common approaches to draining a subphrenic abscess are 1) incision inferior to or through the bed of the 12th rib (no need to create an opening in the pleura or peritoneum) 2) an anterior subphrenic abscess is often drained through a subcostal incision located inferior and parallel to the right costal margin.