Packing versus non-packing outcomes for abscesses after incision and drainage

J Okla State Med Assoc. 2017 Feb;110(2):78-9.

Abstract

CLINICAL QUESTION: In non-diabetic, non-immunocompromised individuals with skin abscesses, does packing after incision and drainage (I&D) reduce the risk of recurrence or reintervention compared with not packing? ANSWER: No. If the abscess is less than 5 cm, packing does not affect outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE FOR THE ANSWER: B. DATE SEARCH WAS CONDUCTED: November 2014. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Published RCTs and meta-analysis studies. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: Abscess greater than 5 cm, abscess in diabetics, abscess in immunocompromised.

Keywords: abscess; incision and drainage; packing, healng by primary vs. secondary intention.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Abscess / pathology
  • Abscess / surgery*
  • Bandages
  • Drainage
  • Humans
  • Postoperative Care / methods*
  • Skin Diseases, Bacterial / pathology
  • Skin Diseases, Bacterial / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome