Test fluid or cervical specimens for N gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia species if definitive identification of these organisms is desired for social or epidemiologic reasons. This technique differentiates an abscess from a cyst. One study suggests that aspiration alone is adequate treatment if antibiotics are given when purulent fluid is recovered. Definitive treatment of an abscess allows drainage and prevents premature wound closure. Several techniques have been described, but no large prospective studies have been performed to determine their relative efficacy and complications.
Patient comfort is essential to successful drainage.
Use adequate anesthesia when incising any abscess. Attempting to do so without anesthesia results in an uncooperative patient, reduces the likelihood of successful drainage, and is unconscionable. Conscious sedation is often required and may be desirable. Word catheter placement First described in 1952, the technique was modified by Word in 1964. Place a small catheter in the abscess cavity through a stab incision in mucosa.