Treatment for a skin abscess may include:
Incision and drainage includes:
- The skin is sterilized using rubbing alcohol or an antibacterial soap.
- A local anesthetic is injected into the tissues surrounding the abscess.
- An incision is made with a scalpel.
- Pus is drained from the abscess.
- The abscess cavity is flushed clean.
- In some cases, a rubber drain or a strip of sterile gauze is packed inside the abscess cavity.
- The gauze or drain placed inside the abscess cavity is usually removed 24-36 hours later.
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