Resection for Chronic Hepatic Abscess due to Infected Embolization Coils After Liver Injury

Abstract

Liver injuries after blunt abdominal trauma are very common. Non-operative approaches to management are now the standard of care for many patients with up to and including grade V liver injuries. However, the long-term complications associated with coil embolization can be challenging to manage. We present the case of a 29-year-old male who presented with a chronic liver abscess which contained the coils following embolization of a grade IV liver injury and the subsequent transhepatic embolization of the pseudoaneurysm. In addition, the patient developed a fistula draining the abscess through the previously placed drain site that traversed the diaphragm. A multidisciplinary discussion was held between trauma surgery, hepatobiliary surgery, thoracic surgery, and interventional radiology to discuss the best treatment plan. The patient subsequently underwent liver resection, fistula tract resection, and diaphragm repair. This case presents a definitive management strategy for these complex patients.