The diagnosis of abdominal abscesses with diagnostic methods generally used up to the present has not proved to be accurate and reliable. The authors give an account of their experience with a new ultrasound echo technique. By employing this technique, abdominal abscesses and effusions can be visualized with accuracy and their size can also be measured. From the examinations performed in 21 patients, 20 gave an accurate diagnosis and there was only one case presenting a false positive result. The authors emphasize the accuracy of this method and its non-invasive character as well.