Pre-operative Preparation for a Pilonidal Abscess Incision and Drainage procedure
There is some important information about the pre-operative preparation for this procedure. It is imperative that you read this.
Read about Pilonidal Pre-operative Preparation
Procedure
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. The abscess is simply incised and the pus is allowed to drain freely. A plastic drain will be inserted through the wound and sutured in place and the purpose of this is to keep the wound open for a time sufficient to allow the drainage of any further pus that may collect. A dressing is placed over the wound. The operation is performed usually as a day case and you will be discharged approximately 2-3 hours after your surgery.
Pilonidal Sinus Excision and Primary Closure
Pilonidal Abscess Incision and Drainage
Post-operative Care following a Pilonidal Abscess Incision and Drainage procedure
Continued drainage from the abscess will spoil the dressing and it is therefore necessary to change this at least on a daily basis or more frequently if the dressing becomes particularly soiled. Simply use a dressing gauze that can be purchased from any pharmacy and tape it in place. When changing the dressing take the opportunity of getting in the shower and giving the wound a good wash with soap and water, taking care with regard to the drain that will be poking out through the wound. Simply dab dry with a towel and then re-dress.
If you are not already on antibiotics then Dr Renaut will prescribe a course for you to take. He will also send you home with a pain killer such as Endone or Panadeine Forte. At forty-eight to seventy-two hours you can probably progress to something simpler such as Nurofen or Panadol. Take these as required.
Dr Renaut will see you in his office usually on day 3 or 4 (he will make the recommendation on discharge), to remove the drain and to review the wound. Once the drain has been removed it is a simple matter of keeping the wound clean with soap and water and re-dressed as required. Dr Renaut will once again see you in approximately 4 -6 weeks after this to assess whether a persisting sinus will need definitive management in the form of excision and primary closure (see separate section).
Follow up
Dr Renaut will see you for a post-operative review at approximately 4 weeks.