Distinguishing gelatin bioabsorbable sponge and postoperative abdominal abscess on CT

OBJECTIVE. The objective of our study was to differentiate the CT findings of gelatin bioabsorbable sponges used as hemostatic agents from postoperative abdominal abscess. CONCLUSION. Gelatin absorbable sponge may mimic a postoperative abscess on CT. Findings that may help differentiate the hemostatic agent from abscess include linear arrangement of tightly packed gas bubbles, fixed position of gas bubbles on subsequent examinations, shape, lack of air-fluid level, and lack of enhancing wall.