Abscess

Complication

Surgery

Randomized controlled trial

Incision and drainage

Wound care

Medicine

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

The incision and drainage of an inflamed or infected cutaneous abscess is a common medical intervention. Traditionally, common practice involves the insertion of a #11 (or similar) scalpel blade to incise an abscess, forming a small linear opening superficially, thus allowing the drainage of purulent contents over several days. Premature skin closure occurs frequently due to the linear wound edges yielding to close approximation. In an effort to avoid this complication, providers often choose to pack the wound.

Use of a punch biopsy tool as an alternative approach for incision and drainage of abscesses