This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. Exención de responsabilidad en Español | Complete disclaimer

Instructions Following Drainage of Perianal Abscess

General Information

Perianal abscesses form in the tissues adjacent to the anus, causing a tender, painful swelling. Treatment usually consists of incision and drainage of the abscess. This is sometimes done in the Emergency Department under local anesthesia or in the operating room, depending on the size of the abscess. In all cases, gauze packing material or a drain of some kind is placed in the abscess cavity to promote drainage and prevent it from closing up prematurely. An outer dressing is applied over this. If gauze packing has been placed inside the abscess cavity, it is usually removed after 1-3 days.

Wound Care:

  1. The outer dressing may be changed as needed. You will notice drainage on the dressing and will continue to have drainage for a while as the wound heals. It is perfectly alright to shower or bathe and change dressings at that time.
  2. If the gauze packing that was placed in the abscess cavity falls out, you do not need to try to replace it. Keep an outer dressing over the wound and change it as needed to keep the area clean.
  3. Both for cleanliness and for comfort, “sitz” baths are helpful. You may sit in a tub of warm water for 15 -20 minutes 2-3 times a day or more, and after bowel movements.
  4. To clean the anal area after bowel movements you can use a moist towelette, baby wipe, moistened cotton ball or tissue, or similar item.

Diet:

  1. Eat your normal, regular diet. Avoid foods that may constipate you or give you diarrhea.
  2. Drink 6- 8 glasses of water each day in addition to your meals.

Medication:

  1. To prevent constipation, it is important to take a fiber supplement or good serving of a high-fiber cereal daily.  Fiber supplements include products such as Metamucil, Citrucel, Benefiber, may be taken twice a day.  High fiber cereals are those that contain 10 grams or more of fiber per serving, and include All Bran, Fiber One, Bran Buds, Kashi Go-Lean. You should check the side of the box for dietary fiber content.
  2. Take pain medication as directed. You are advised NOT to drive or operate machinery while taking narcotic prescription medication. Extra Strength Tylenol, Naprosyn, and Ibuprofen are good for mild to moderate pain.

Bowel function:
You do not want to go for more than 3 days without a bowel movement if you are eating a regular diet. You can use a regular Fleet enema or glycerine suppository if you have trouble with bowel movements or are constipated.

Activity:
You may resume regular activities as tolerated. Avoid activities that you would expect to be painful.

 

Return Visit
You should have an appointment for follow-up in the surgery clinic within a few days. If you do not have an appointment for follow-up, you can call the General Surgery Call Center at 734-936-5738

 

Questions
If you have questions regarding what to do or are having any problems, such as difficulty urinating, increased pain or bleeding, or fever greater that 100 degrees Fahrenheit (oral), you can call 734-763-9641 to speak to one of the nursing staff during working hours.

 

Information provided by UMHS Division of Colorectal Surgery
Decermber, 2007