Technology advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of peritonsillar abscess

A 17 year-old man presented to the emergency department with signs and symptoms of a peritonsillar abscess. His trismus was so pronounced that it was too difficult to drain the abscess under dynamic ultrasound guidance. It was suggested that localization of the abscess with ultrasound be used concurrently with video laryngoscopy. The ultrasound was used to localize the abscess and visualize its depth. The laryngoscope was then used to visualize the exact spot, where the ultrasound probe characterized the abscess. The probe was then removed, and a needle attached to a syringe was used in its place. Drainage was facilitated using the video laryngoscope in the oral cavity. Seven milliliters of pus was removed, and the patient drastically improved after the procedure.