ORCiD
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4044-4445
Document Type
Practice Innovations
Abstract
Background
Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a relatively common diagnosis to encounter in the emergency department (ED). If untreated, PTA can lead to serious outcomes such as airway compromise, deep space infections and septicemia. Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) can be used by the emergency physician to confirm the suspected diagnosis, evaluate the size and depth of the abscess, and be used as a guide during needle aspiration.
Case
A 26-year-old male presented to the ED with a sore throat and was found to have a peritonsillar abscess on exam, which was confirmed using computerized tomography (CT) imaging. Providers were unable to aspirate any abscess contents on the initial blind attempt but were successful on the second try when they incorporated use of POCUS.
Importance
POCUS has changed the practice of emergency medicine. It allows providers to quickly and efficiently make diagnoses, assists with bedside procedures and improves overall patient care. When diagnosing and treating PTAs, emergency providers can use POCUS to assess depth of the abscess and guide needle aspiration as described in this report. POCUS has numerous advantages over routine CT use including shortened length of stay, lower healthcare costs, avoidance of radiation, plus the additional benefit of being used for dynamic procedural guidance.
Recommended Citation
Piwowarski, Elizabeth; Dsouza, Kenith; and Hoffman, Taryn
(2025)
"Ultrasound-Guided Needle Aspiration of a Peritonsillar Abscess in the Emergency Department,"
Florida Journal of Emergency Medicine (FJEM): Vol. 2.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/fjem/vol2/iss1/6