Blood tests are not necessary to evaluate an uncomplicated abscess or cyst. Consider syphilis serology, as abscesses are often caused by sexually transmitted organisms. Test fluid or cervical specimens for N. gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia species, if definitive identification of these organisms is desired for social or epidemiologic reasons. The 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.
Incise all abscesses with adequate anesthesia. Attempting to do so without anesthesia will result in an uncooperative patient, reduce the likelihood of successful drainage, and is unconscionable. Conscious sedation is often required and may be desirable. In patients with large or complex abscesses or complicated procedures, general anesthesia in the OR may be required. Word catheter placement First described in 1952, the technique was modified by Word in 1964.