CTICasesSurgicel (Hemostatic Material) Mimicking Postoperative Mediastinal Abscess
Imaging findings
Postoperative chest CT images show a fluid collection containing small amounts of gas in the anterior and para-aortic mediastinum following aortic valve replacement and ascending aortic graft surgery. This collection was initially interpreted as a potential abscess or infected fluid collection.
Key takeaways
Hemostatic agents such as Surgicel (or Surgicel Fibrillar) can retain fluid and small amounts of air in the postoperative surgical bed, mimicking an abscess or infection on CT. Direct communication with the surgeon regarding the use of these materials is crucial, especially when there is a clinical mismatch and the patient remains asymptomatic and non-febrile.
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