Avoid the Phrase "No Drainable Fluid Collection" When Interpreting Examinations for Suspected Odontogenic Infection.

Abstract

The phrase "no drainable fluid collection" harbors implicit management guidelines that may be inappropriate in regard to acute odontogenic infection. For many emergency department physicians, these words trigger a treatment plan involving antibiotics without drainage. However, many odontogenic infections require immediate drainage even when an abscess is not visible on imaging. As such, the phrase "no drainable fluid collection" should not be used when reporting on imaging performed for odontogenic infection.