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Open drains are commonly used for superficial wounds and drain into dressings or a stoma bag. Closed drains are tubes or other channel-like structures that are connected to a container, thereby creating a closed system. External drains go from inside the body to outside the body and can be seen, while internal drains are completely inside the body.
An abscess is a collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body. [1] Signs and symptoms of abscesses include redness, pain, warmth, and swelling. [1] The swelling may feel fluid-filled when pressed. [1] The area of redness often extends beyond the swelling. [6]
Treatment is with antibiotics and drainage of the abscess; typically guided by ultrasound or CT, through the skin, via the rectum, or transvaginal routes. [3] Occasionally antibiotics may be used without surgery; if the abscess is at a very stage and small. [2] Until sensitivities are received, a broad spectrum antibiotic is generally required. [2]
For incisional abscesses, it is recommended that incision and drainage is followed by covering the area with a thin layer of gauze followed by sterile dressing. The dressing should be changed and the wound irrigated with normal saline at least twice each day. [4]
Abscesses can recur if the fistula seals over, allowing the accumulation of pus. It can then extend to the surface again – repeating the process. [5] Anal fistulae per se do not generally harm, but can be very painful, and can be irritating because of the drainage of pus (it is also possible for formed stools to be passed through the fistula ...
A Penrose drain removes fluid from a wound area. Frequently it is put in place by a surgeon after a procedure is complete to prevent the area from accumulating fluid, such as blood, which could serve as a medium for bacteria to grow in.
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The purpose of a drain is to prevent fluid (blood or other) build-up in a closed ("dead") space, [2] which may cause either disruption of the wound and the healing process or become an infected abscess, with either scenario possibly requiring a formal drainage/repair procedure (and possibly another trip to the operating room).