Anal Abscess Treatments

Treatment

Treatment normally consists of draining the abscess, which is done by making an incision through the skin near the anus into the abscess. For this, you will be given local anesthesia. In rare cases, admittance to a hospital is required, as well as general anesthesia . Antibiotics may be given to reduce fever or under other special circumstances.

Complications of Treatment

Following drainage (or natural rupture) of an abscess, more than half the cases will develop into anal fistulas—usually occurring weeks but sometimes years later. In this condition, a permanent abnormal channel is formed from the site of the original abscess to the surface of the skin near the anus. This channel (fistula) allows for the continuous drainage of the abscesses’ pus-like fluid. In the case of a fistula, surgery to remove and close-up the channel is normally recommended. Following surgery, recurrence of a fistula is common, and stool incontinence may occur.

If you are diagnosed with an anal abscess or fistula, follow your doctor's instructions.