Pilonidal Abscess Incision and Drainage
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.
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.
