Anal abscess (incision and drainage)

An anal abscess is a collection of pus that forms near the anus, usually starting from a small gland in the anal canal that has become infected. It causes intense, throbbing pain that gets worse quickly and often makes sitting impossible, a red, hot swelling, and sometimes fever. An abscess cannot be treated with antibiotics alone: it must be opened and drained surgically without delay. Under anaesthesia, the surgeon opens the abscess, drains the pus and cleans the cavity. If a tract to the inside of the anus (fistula) is visible and superficial, it can be laid open at the same time; if it is deep, a draining seton may be placed and treatment completed later. The procedure relieves pain almost immediately. It prevents the infection from spreading to nearby tissues, which can be serious, especially in people with diabetes or reduced immunity. At Clinique Pasteur Tunis, anal abscesses are treated as emergencies, at any time of day or night, with rapid access to the operating theatre. A follow-up appointment is arranged to check healing and look for a possible fistula.