A novel treatment for inferior mediastinal abscess via abdominal laparoscopy

Mediastinal abscess can be managed through a variety of both invasive and minimally invasive methods, as determined by location and spread of infection. Thoracotomy remains the gold standard in treatment and is often employed. In the present case, a 54-year-old female with chronic pancreatitis presented with a 1-week history of severe epigastric pain, nausea and vomiting. On CT scan, a large abscess was discovered in the anterior inferior mediastinum. She was taken to the operating room and underwent laparoscopic drainage of the abscess. Laparoscopy represents a novel approach in management of anterior inferior mediastinal abscess.