Anal Abscess Surgery - Benefits, Treatment Types & Recovery

Anal abscess is a common anorectal disease that requires prompt medical diagnosis and treatment. If you experience signs like throbbing pain and swelling around the anus, get in touch with our expert proctologist for detailed consultation and management of anal abscesses. At Pristyn Care, we leverage modern-age laser treatment to treat patients with difference types of abscesses in the anal area.

Anal abscess is a common anorectal disease that requires prompt medical diagnosis and ... Read More

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What Is Anal Abscess Surgery?

Anal abscess surgery is a procedure used to treat an infected anal abscess i.e., a collection of pus in the tissues surrounding the anus and rectum. During the surgery, the abscess is drained and any surrounding inflamed tissue is removed. The operation provides relief from pain, swelling and infection and helps reduce the chances of bleeding and recurrence of the condition.

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Types Of Anal Abscess Surgery:

Incision and Drainage: During this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut in the affected area, drains out the pus, and cleans out any bacteria.
Fistulectomy: This technique involves excising the entire abscess and any fistulas that may have formed.
Seton Placement: During this procedure, a suture is placed around the abscess and tightened over time to gradually open up its walls and allow for drainage of the pus.
Sphincterotomy: This involves cutting part of the internal anal sphincter muscle to decrease pressure in that area and improve drainage from an abscess or fistula.

What Happens In Anal Abscess Surgery?

Your doctor will first suggest a complete assessment, after which he or she will decide whether to continue with the procedure based on the patient’s diagnosis and condition.

Anal Abscess Diagnosis

Some diagnostic tests for an anal abscess may include:

Physical examination: The doctor will perform a physical exam to look for signs of an abscess, including pain, tenderness, and signs of inflammation around the anus.
Anal swab test: A swab test may be taken from the area around the anus to check for infection and determine the type of bacteria or fungi responsible.
Anoscopy: An anoscope, or lighted tube, may be used to look inside the anus and rectum for signs of infection or disease.
Ultrasound: This imaging test can help detect an abscess and measure its size and depth.
CT scan: A CT scan can show soft tissue details that help diagnose an abscess.
MRI scan: An MRI may also be used to diagnose the presence of an abscess and its size and location in certain cases.

During Anal Abscess Surgery

The procedure of different types of Anal Abscess surgery is explained below:

Incision and drainage: In this procedure, a small incision is made near the site of the abscess, and then the pus is allowed to drain out. After the draining is complete, a dressing may be placed in place to catch any additional drainage.
Fistulotomy: This procedure involves making a larger opening in the wall of the abscess to allow for better drainage. Usually, a local anaesthetic is used for this type of surgery, and stitches are used to close the wound once it is finished draining. The area where the abscess was located may be left open for a few days for additional drainage to take place. The wound will then be closed with stitches or skin glue.

Why Is Anal Abscess Surgery Performed?

Anal abscess surgery is performed:

To drain the infection and help relieve associated symptoms such as pain, swelling, and redness in the area.
To prevent the spread of the infection to other parts of the body or abdominal cavity.
To treat complications caused by an anal abscess such as fistulas (tunnels descending from the anus or rectum), or a stricture (an abnormal narrowing of a passage).
In some cases, surgery may be recommended as a preventive measure to lower the risk of recurrent anal abscesses in individuals who have had multiple episodes of these infections.

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How To Prepare For Anal Abscess Surgery?

Things you can do to prepare for the anal abscess surgery include:

Discuss the procedure: Your doctor will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. They will also provide you with information on what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.
Fasting: You will be asked to fast for several hours before the surgery. This is to ensure that your stomach is empty and reduce the risk of complications during the surgery.
Bowel preparation: You may be asked to take a laxative or enema to clean out your bowels before the surgery. This is to reduce the risk of infection and ensure that the area is clean for the surgery.
Clothing: You should wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hospital on the day of the surgery.
Arrange for a ride: You will not be able to drive after the surgery, so arrange for someone to drive you home.
Follow instructions: Your doctor will give you specific instructions on what to do before the surgery. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

What Are The Side Effects Of Anal Abscess Surgery?

Some potential side effects of anal abscess surgery include:

Pain and Discomfort: Patients may experience pain and discomfort in the affected area after the surgery.
Swelling: Swelling may occur at the site of the abscess or near the surgical incision.
Bleeding: There may be bleeding from the surgical wound or during the first bowel movement after the surgery.
Infection: There is a risk of infection after surgery, which may require further treatment.
Loss of bowel control: Patients may experience a temporary or permanent loss of bowel control after surgery.
Fissure: There is a chance that an anal fissure may develop after surgery.
Recurrence: In rare cases, the abscess may recur even after successful surgery.
Scar Formation: The surgical incision may lead to scarring, which may cause discomfort or itching.
Sexual Dysfunction: There is a chance of sexual dysfunction in some patients after surgery.
Anaesthesia-related complications: Some patients may experience complications related to anaesthesia, such as allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.

What Not To Do After Anal Abscess Surgery?

These things should be avoided after Anal Abscess surgery:

Don’t engage in vigorous physical activities, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, for at least two weeks after surgery.
Don’t sit on hard surfaces for prolonged periods as it can exacerbate pain and pressure.
Don’t take over-the-counter pain medications without consulting with your healthcare provider, as they can interfere with the effect of prescribed medications or cause prolonged healing time.
Don’t consume alcoholic beverages or smoke cigarettes as it can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Don’t ignore any signs of infection, bleeding, or fever, and immediately seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

Alternative Options For Anal Abscess Treatment

Some of the alternative treatment options for anal abscess include:

Drainage: This option involves draining the infected area of any fluids or pus present, which can reduce the infection and relieve pressure from the abscess.
Antibiotics: Antibiotics are an effective way to treat anal abscess if it is caused by a bacterial infection, as they can help to reduce inflammation and eliminate the infection.
Perianal Irrigation: For more chronic anal abscesses, perianal irrigation may help flush out any remaining pus and promote the healing of healthy tissue.
Topical Treatments: Topical treatments such as ointments and creams are also used to treat anal abscesses as they can help to reduce swelling and pain as well as encourage healing of the inflamed skin around the abscess.

Recovery After Anal Abscess Surgery

Recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. In general, it may take several weeks to fully recover and return to normal activities.

Few things which can help you with recovery after anal abscess surgery are:

Taking a break from work is also recommended, giving yourself enough time to rest and recuperate.
Patients should adhere to a diet that promotes healthy bowel movements, including drinking plenty of water, consuming fibre, and avoiding spicy or fatty foods.
Hygiene is also essential during the recovery process. Patients should clean the surgical site after a bowel movement by gently wiping with a damp cloth or using a sitz bath. This can reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.
It is vital to follow up with the treating physician’s recommendations such as wound care, medication regimen, and scheduled visits to monitor the healing process.

Common FAQs Around Anal Abscess Treatment

What To Expect After Anal Abscess Surgery?

Recovery from anal abscess surgery may take anywhere from 3 to 10 weeks, depending on the size and location of the abscess. Some rare but potential side effects of surgery can range from pain and discomfort to urinary retention and sepsis. Complications such as infection, constipation, or further tissue damage can occur.

Who Can Undergo Anal Abscess Surgery?

Anal abscess surgery is generally recommended for people who have a persistent or recurrent anal abscess, or who have a large or deep abscess. It may also be required if there is an underlying cause that needs to be addressed, such as an anal fistula.

Benefits Of Anal Abscess Surgery

Here are some benefits of anal abscess surgery:

Immediate pain relief.
Reduced risk of infection spreading.
Tissue healing
Improved bowel function.
Reduced risk of further abscess formation.
Elimination of the need for further medical treatment.

Can An Anal Abscess Be Treated Without Surgery?

It depends on the severity of the abscess. In some cases, antibiotics and drainage of the abscess may be sufficient. However, surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.

Can An Anal Abscess Recur After Surgery?

Yes, an anal abscess can recur even after surgery. It is important to follow proper hygiene and dietary habits to reduce the risk of recurrence.

What Type Of Anaesthesia Is Used During Anal Abscess Surgery?

Depending on the extent of the surgery, local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia may be used.

Can Anal Abscess Surgery Affect Bowel Movements?

It is possible for anal abscess surgery to temporarily affect bowel movements and cause constipation or diarrhoea. However, this typically resolves within a few days to a week.

What Dietary Changes Should Be Made After Anal Abscess Surgery?

A high-fibre diet and plenty of fluids are recommended to prevent constipation and promote healing. Avoiding spicy or greasy foods may also be helpful.

How Can Anal Abscess Surgery Affect Sexual Function?

In rare cases, anal abscess surgery may cause temporary or permanent damage to nerves and muscles that control sexual function. It is important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

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