Midline extraperitoneal approach for bilateral widespread retroperitoneal abscess originating from anorectal infection

•Retroperitoneal abscesses originating from anorectal infection are rare events.•Surgical drainage of widespread retroperitoneal abscesses might be challenging.•Midline extraperitoneal approach is a useful option for retroperitoneal abscesses.

IntroductionAnorectal abscess is one of the most common anorectal conditions encountered in practice. However, such abscesses may rarely extend upward and cause life-threatening medical conditions.Presentation of caseA 53-year-old woman presented with symptoms of anorectal abscess and evidence of severe inflammatory response and acute kidney injury. Computed tomography revealed a widespread abscess extending to the bilateral retroperitoneal spaces. Surgical drainage was performed via a totally extraperitoneal approach through a lower midline abdominal incision, and the patient had a rapid and uncomplicated recovery.DiscussionAlthough retroperitoneal abscesses originating from the anorectal region are rare, they are life-threating events that require immediate treatment. Percutaneous abscess drainage has been recently evolved; however, surgical drainage is required sometimes that may be challenging, particularly in the case of widespread abscesses, as in our case.ConclusionThe midline extraperitoneal approach reported here might be an effective surgical option for patients with bilateral widespread retroperitoneal abscesses.