An abscess is an expression of purulent inflammation caused by bacteria. An abscess is a reservoir of pus and dead tissues, it can occur in superficial tissues (skin and subcutaneous tissue) and in the area of internal organs. The purpose of the abscess incision and drainage procedure is to prevent further spread of the infection. The presence of an abscess must not be underestimated, because the infiltration of the bacteria contained in the abscess into the bloodstream may lead to the development of life-threatening sepsis. The surgical procedure also allows you to avoid the formation of fistulas, i.e. abnormal channels that cut tissue or connect internal organs.
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What does an abscess look like and what are its symptoms?
An abscess can be located on any part of the body. Superficial abscesses are soft, domed reservoirs filled with cloudy fluid. In the area of the abscess, warming and redness of the tissues are observed. Deeper abscesses can be diagnosed by ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging. The presence of an abscess is accompanied by general symptoms such as pain, chills, and fever. There may also be specific symptoms related to the location of the abscess.
The causes of abscess formation
An abscess is formed as a result of infection with bacteria, e.g. golden staphylococcus, pyogenic streptococcus or Enterobacteriaceae. The cloudy fluid in the abscess is a mixture of bacteria, dead cells, and cells of the immune system. The formation of an abscess prevents the migration of bacteria and allows the local concentration of defense reactions in the confined abscess reservoir. The cause of the introduction of bacteria into the tissues may be trauma - a foreign body sticking into the body. Infection can also occur from an intramuscular injection with an infected needle. In practice, any bacterial inflammation that is persistent and does not result in an effective evacuation of the inflammatory agent (bacteria) is at risk of developing an abscess.
The risk factors that increase the risk of abscess occurrence include:
Weakened functioning of the immune system (people undergoing immunosuppressive treatment, people with cancer),
Diabetes,
Inflammatory bowel diseases,
Diseases of blood vessels (occlusive atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities, chronic venous insufficiency),
Presence of pressure ulcers and wounds (people lying down),
patients of intensive care units.
Where do abscesses most often occur?
Anal abscess (perianal) - infection of the glands around the anus,
Abscess on the buttock - infection of the muscle tissue after the injection,
Breast abscess - most often as a result of blockage of the outflow of milk from the breast (in nursing mothers) or regardless of lactation,
Abscesses located inside the abdominal cavity - often a complication of peritonitis (due to perforation of the intestinal wall or appendicitis),
Oral abscess - within the gums (untreated caries),
Pharyngeal abscess - in the course of angina.
Why is an abscess not to be underestimated?
An abscess is self-absorbing only in rare cases (minor abscesses). If left untreated, the abscess grows in size and can put pressure on the surrounding tissues. The most dangerous complication of an abscess is its uncontrolled rupture - the spread of the inflammation focus may result in further spread of the infection. When bacteria enter the bloodstream and then enter other internal organs, the so-called sepsis. It is a life-threatening condition due to the possibility of multiple organ failure and serious disturbance of the main vital parameters.
Purulent inflammation - antibiotic therapy
Most bacterial inflammations with abscess formation are treated with antibiotics. Antibiotic therapy can reduce pain and relieve symptoms resulting from cellulitis. However, antibiotics are not able to penetrate the abscess sufficiently and lead to its absorption. It is then necessary to perform the incision and drainage of the abscess contents. Antibiotics are taken in the pre- and postoperative period.
Management after abscess drainage
The patient leaves the hospital on the day of the procedure (incision of the superficial abscess under local anesthesia) or up to three days after the procedure (when general anesthesia is used). The doctor usually recommends continuation of antibiotic therapy and, if necessary, prescribes painkillers. It is especially important to take care of wound hygiene and to change the dressings regularly. Medical control takes place at an individually appointed time by the doctor. If local symptoms worsen (pain, swelling) or fever recurs, see a doctor urgently.
Important information
|
Duration of the procedure (depending on the method) |
10 - 20 minutes |
| Tests required for surgery | - |
| Anesthesia | local |
| Hospital stay | does not require |
| A period of significant dysfunction | absent |
| A period of limited dysfunction | 1 - 2 days |
| Removal of stitches - first visit | no sutures, 1st visit 3-7 days |
| Change of dressings | daily |
| Contraindications to the procedure | none |
Frequently asked questions about abscess removal:
Symptoms of an abscess are pain in the buttock, a feeling of distension in the muscle, increased warmth and possible reddening of the skin. Local symptoms may be accompanied by general malaise and fever. An abscess should not be underestimated - its rupture may lead to spread of infection and serious complications, including sepsis. You should see a surgeon who will assess the size of the abscess and decide on drainage and antibiotics.
Superficial abscesses are removed under local anesthesia. The surgeon cuts the abscess and evacuates its contents, which are then subjected to culture tests. If necessary, the surgeon will insert a filter that allows the continuous removal of pus from the wound. Filters are replaced within 1-3 days. The wound after the procedure is sutured and covered with a dressing. If local anesthesia is used, there is no need for hospitalization - the patient may leave the hospital on the day of the procedure. Follow-up visits with assessment of wound healing follow a schedule determined by the physician.
