Percutaneous drainage proves more effective than open surgical drainage

In a study of 64 patients undergoing percutaneous drainage for postoperative abdominal fluid formations, success rates reached 96.8%, with average hospital stays of 9.13 days. In contrast, open surgical drainage yielded an 80% success rate and longer stays averaging 11.10 days. Complications were more common among those who underwent open surgery (16.7% vs. 12.4%). The findings suggest percutaneous drainage is safer, more effective, and may replace traditional interventions.