When is the best time to perform surgery on perianal abscess?

The best time to perform surgery on perianal abscesses is usually as soon as possible after diagnosis, because abscesses are difficult to resolve on their own, and early treatment can reduce the risk of the condition worsening into a complicated anal fistula. The goal of surgery is to drain pus as quickly as possible, relieve pain and inflammation, and prevent the spread of infection.

Perianal abscess is mainly caused by the accumulation of pus in the anal glands or surrounding tissues due to infection. Its symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, fever, etc. in the anal area. Early diagnosis and treatment are very important. The choice of surgical time needs to be combined with the patient's condition, the scope of infection and physical condition. Acute abscesses usually manifest as severe pain and shallow abscesses. After diagnosis, it should not be delayed and surgical incision and drainage should be performed immediately. For some patients with chronic abscesses and mild symptoms, surgery can be arranged according to the situation, but long-term delay is not recommended to avoid anal fistula or other complications. For patients with deeper abscesses or accompanied by severe infections, such as ischiorectal space abscesses, surgery needs to weigh the risks and can be performed in the stable period after anti-infection drugs are controlled. Special populations, such as diabetic patients, should undergo surgery after controlling blood sugar to reduce the possibility of postoperative infection.

The surgical method can be traditional incision and drainage, hanging thread therapy or incision and hanging thread surgery, which is determined by the specialist according to the condition. Postoperative care should be taken, including a light diet, appropriate fiber supplementation and drinking plenty of water to prevent constipation; warm water sitz baths to help reduce inflammation; and medication as prescribed by the doctor, such as antibiotics to prevent infection. Keeping the anus clean, avoiding long periods of sitting, and having a regular work and rest schedule can also help recovery. Timely medical treatment and early surgery are the key to protecting health. If suspected symptoms occur, consult a professional doctor as soon as possible for proper evaluation and treatment.