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Perianal Abscess

What Is Perianal Abscess Surgery?

Patients suffering from the buildup of pus under the skin due to an infection in the wall near the anus often receive abscess—perianal surgery.  Administering general anesthesia to the patient, the surgeon makes an incision to release the pus and packs the wound with swabs to drain any excess pus that remains.  Most patients return home 1 to 2 days after perianal surgery with a prescription for antibiotics to help the healing process.  Abscesses that are left untreated discharge over a longer period and are the source of much pain and infection (which can lead to fevers). 

For approximately 1 week after perianal surgery, the patient must replace the swabs on alternate days.  The treated area should be kept dry during this time.  When the wound becomes free of pus, no further swabs are necessary.  One month post surgery, the surgeon examines the wound to determine whether further treatment is necessary.   

Immediately after the surgery, some discomfort may be apparent for the first 3 to 4 days, but patients are typically mobile enough to leave their beds with assistance the day after the operation.  Bowel movements tend to be painful at first, but improve over time.  It is usually recommended that patients try to urinate within 6 to 12 hours of the surgery.  The wound typically heals in 2 weeks, and most patients resume driving after approximately 10 days.  Sexual relations are usually possible within 1 or 2 weeks. Â