When It’s Indicated
A fluctuant abscess does not respond to antibiotics alone. Definitive treatment is incision, drainage, and irrigation, with cultures sent for targeted antibiotic therapy.
How It’s Done
In the office for superficial abscesses under local anesthesia. In the operating room for deep, multi-compartment, or complex infections - particularly in patients with diabetes - where adequate exploration and washout requires regional anesthesia and a controlled environment.
Aftercare
Daily dressing changes, oral or IV antibiotics targeted to culture results, close follow-up to confirm resolution, and management of any underlying contributing factor (ingrown nail, ulcer, foreign body).