How painful is perianal abscess surgery?

The degree of pain from perianal abscess surgery varies from person to person, but the surgery itself is usually performed under anesthesia, so the patient should not feel any pain during the procedure. Some discomfort or pain after surgery is normal, but with proper postoperative care and the right medication, most patients are able to recover quickly and with less pain.

1. Surgical pain and its causes

Surgery for perianal abscess is generally performed under local anesthesia, spinal anesthesia or intravenous general anesthesia. Most patients will not feel pain during anesthesia. However, wound pain may occur after surgery, which is related to the surgical incision of the infected site, the drainage of pus and the removal of damaged tissue. The presence of postoperative drainage gauze may also rub the wound, causing increased discomfort. For pain relief, the doctor will prescribe painkillers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or stronger opioids (such as tramadol) to prevent pain from affecting daily life.

2. Effect of postoperative care on pain

Proper postoperative care can significantly relieve pain.

-Increase the frequency of sitz baths: Taking warm water sitz baths 1-2 times a day can promote blood circulation, reduce perianal pressure, and help relieve wound discomfort.

-Pay attention to bowel management: In the short term after surgery, bowel movement may be painful due to discomfort in the wound or perianal drainage. Pay attention to a high-fiber diet, eat more apples, spinach, whole grains and other foods, and drink plenty of water every day to keep the stool soft and smooth. If necessary, you can also take laxatives (such as lactulose, polyethylene glycol electrolyte powder).

-Keep the wound clean and dry: If the postoperative care is not in place, infection is likely to occur, aggravating the pain and even leading to complications. It is very important to change the drainage gauze every day to prevent the growth of foreign bacteria.

3. The importance of lifestyle adjustment

In addition to medication, a healthy lifestyle can help relieve pain and promote recovery.

-Regular activities: Avoid strenuous exercise in the early postoperative period, but moderate walking can help blood circulation and accelerate wound healing.

-Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time: To prevent obstruction of local blood circulation around the anus, it is recommended to do some light activity every 30 minutes, such as getting up and walking around.

-Psychological adjustment: Perianal abscess can cause many patients to feel psychological pressure, and mental tension may aggravate the pain. You can try to relax yourself through deep breathing, meditation, etc. and maintain a good attitude.

4. Severity of postoperative pain

If the postoperative pain exceeds the tolerable range, such as continued aggravation of pain, accompanied by fever, swelling, redness, or abnormal secretions, it may indicate secondary infection, recurrence of abscesses, or other complications, and timely medical examination and treatment are required. If necessary, the doctor will perform secondary debridement or adjust the antibiotic medication regimen.

Postoperative pain is something that every patient may experience, but the degree of pain is not uncontrollable. Most discomfort can be alleviated through scientific care, timely medication and healthy living habits. Believe that you can improve, and at the same time, do not ignore medical help, make a good rehabilitation plan, and recover your health as soon as possible.