Health Encyclopedia
Search Clinical Content Search Health Library
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings

 

Abscess Drainage

An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around an infection. Pus is a fluid made up of bacteria, white blood cells, and other matter. Draining pus from an infected area or organ inside the body may be needed. This helps heal the infection. The procedure is usually done by a specially trained doctor called an interventional radiologist.

 

How do I get ready for abscess drainage?

Follow any instructions you are given on how to prepare, including:

  • Do not eat or drink anything for 6 hours before the procedure or as directed by your healthcare provider.

  • Tell the technologist if you are, or could be, pregnant or if you are breastfeeding.

  • Tell your healthcare provider and the technologist if you are allergic to X-ray dye (contrast medium), iodine, or other medicines.

  • Be sure your healthcare provider knows about any health conditions you have and all medicines you take. You may be told to stop taking some or all of your medications before the test. This includes:

  • All prescription medicines (especially blood thinners)

  • Over-the-counter medicines that do not need a prescription

  • Any illegal drugs you may use 

  • Herbs, vitamins, kelp, seaweed, cough syrups, and any other supplements

 

What happens during abscess drainage?

  • The drainage catheter may be temporarily sutured or taped to your skin to help secure it and prevent it from moving.

  • Pus drains from the abscess through the catheter. A bag or suction bulb will be attached to the catheter to hold the pus as it drains.

  • Using CT scan, X-ray, or ultrasound images as a guide, the radiologist puts a needle through the skin and guides it to the abscess. The needle is then replaced with a thin, flexible tube (catheter).

  • The skin over the abscess is cleaned. A local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin.

  • An intravenous (IV) line may be put into your vein to give you fluids and medicines. You may be given medicine through the IV to help you relax.

  • You will change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. You may lie on your back, front, or side, depending on the site of the abscess.

  • The entire procedure may take 30 minutes or longer, depending on the location of the abscess.

 

What happens after abscess drainage?

  • Have someone drive you home after the procedure, as you may be uncomfortable or groggy from medication.

  • A slight fever is normal for the first 24 hours after the procedure.

  • The catheter and drainage bag will likely remain in place for several days. Follow any instructions you are given for caring for the catheter and drainage site.

  • You may be given antibiotics by mouth to treat the infection. Finish all of the medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

  • You may be given medication for pain or discomfort, or you may take over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your doctor.

  • See your healthcare provider for a follow-up appointment to check the infection and to have the catheter removed.

  • Ask your doctor about when you can you resume your usual activities such as housework and driving.

     

 

When to call the healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider if:

·        You begin to bleed from the drain site

·        You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider

·        You have new or worsening pain

·        Fluid stops draining from the tube, the drainage changes in color or odor, or there is an increased amount of pus

·        There is an increase in redness or swelling at the drain site

·        The tube moves or comes out

 

 

 

Powered by Krames by WebMD Ignite
About StayWell | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer