Types of Abscesses We Manage

  • Skin and soft tissue abscesses
  • Perianal abscess (linked to specialised anorectal care)
  • Breast abscess
  • Post-injection abscess
  • Wound infections with abscess formation

Symptoms

  • Swelling with redness and warmth
  • Throbbing pain
  • Tenderness
  • Fever
  • Pus discharge if the abscess has begun to drain spontaneously

When to Seek Care

  • Any painful swelling with signs of infection
  • Fever with a localised swelling
  • Rapidly enlarging swelling
  • Diabetic patients with any suspected infection

Treatment

Incision and Drainage

  • Local or regional anaesthesia
  • Duration: 15 to 30 minutes
  • Adequate drainage of pus
  • Wound left open with packing to heal by secondary intention
  • Same-day discharge in most cases

Antibiotics

Given based on wound culture and clinical assessment.

Wound Care

  • Regular dressing changes
  • Follow-up until complete healing

Recovery

  • Pain relief within hours of drainage
  • Dressing changes as prescribed
  • Return to work in a few days depending on abscess site and job type
  • Complete healing over 1 to 3 weeks