Abscess Drainage

Also known as: percutaneous abscess drainage, drainage of abscesses.

What is abscess drainage?

An abscess is a bump just under the body’s skin that is filled with fluid known as puss. Abscess drainage is the medical procedure used to drain the fluid from an abscess.

What happens during the procedure?

Abscess drainage begins with a thorough cleaning of the abscess, surrounding tissue and the instruments used to drain the abscess. Then sterile towels are placed around the abscess and an incision is made with a scalpel. After draining, the area is cleaned and treated with gauze and tape.

Is any special preparation needed?

No special preparation is needed for this procedure.

What are the risk factors?

Infection, bleeding and scarring are potential risks of abscess drainage.


Reviewed by: Dr. Rachel M Pevsner Crum, DO

This page was last updated on: July 19, 2021 12:19 PM