Anorectal abscesses are painful collections of pus that typically form in the rectum or around the anus. Treatment of anorectal abscesses is typically surgical, and the goal is to drain the abscess and provide relief from pain and discomfort.
Surgical Treatment
The primary treatment of anorectal abscesses is surgical drainage. This may be done through a simple incision and drainage, or more complex surgical procedures such as fistulectomy, fibrin glue treatment, and seton placement.
Simple Incision and Drainage: This is the most common treatment for anorectal abscesses. The procedure involves making a small incision over the abscess and allowing the pus to drain out. This is typically done under local anesthesia.
Fistulectomy: In this procedure, the surgeon will make an incision over the abscess and then excise the fistula, which is a tunnel that connects the abscess to the rectum or anus. This procedure is typically done under general anesthesia and may require a temporary colostomy.
Fibrin Glue Treatment: This procedure involves injecting fibrin glue into the fistula to help close it and stop the drainage of pus. This procedure is typically done in combination with a fistulectomy.
Seton Placement: This procedure involves placing a thin piece of rubber band called a seton through the fistula. This allows the pus to continually drain for a longer period of time, and the seton can be gradually tightened over time to help close the fistula.
Non-Surgical Treatment
In some cases, anorectal abscesses may be treated without surgery. This is typically done if the abscess is small and not causing significant pain or discomfort. Non-surgical treatment involves a course of antibiotics and warm compresses to help reduce the inflammation and encourage healing.
Follow-Up Care
After treatment for anorectal abscesses, it is important to follow up with your doctor to ensure that the infection has resolved and to rule out any complications. Your doctor may recommend a course of antibiotics or other medications to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend a colonoscopy to check for any underlying conditions that may have caused the abscess.