38305 Drainage of lymph node abscess or lymphadenitis; extensive

Name of the Procedure:

Drainage of lymph node abscess or lymphadenitis; extensive

Summary

In simple terms, this procedure involves making an incision to drain pus or fluid from an infected lymph node. It's performed when the infection is extensive and can't be managed with antibiotics alone.

Purpose

This procedure addresses infected lymph nodes that have filled with pus due to bacterial infections or other causes. The goal is to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and prevent the spread of infection.

Indications

• Severe pain and swelling in the area of the infected lymph node
• Fever and other signs of systemic infection
• No improvement with antibiotic treatment
• Imaging tests showing an abscess

Preparation

• Fasting may be required if general anesthesia is used.
• Adjustments to medications, especially blood thinners, may be necessary.
• Blood tests and imaging (such as ultrasound or CT scans) to assess the extent of the infection.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A small cut is made in the skin over the affected lymph node.
3. Drainage: The pus is drained from the abscess cavity.
4. Cleaning: The area is irrigated with a sterile solution to remove any remaining pus or debris.
5. Closure: The incision may be left open to drain or partially closed with stitches. A drain might be placed to continue to remove fluid.

Tools used include scalpels, drainage tubes, and irrigating solutions.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

• Hospital Operating Room
• Outpatient Surgical Center
• Clinic Procedure Room

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Nurses
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Recurrence of the abscess
• Pain or discomfort
• Reaction to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief from pain and swelling
• Prevention of the spread of infection
• Quick recovery generally within days

Recovery

• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Follow-up visits for wound care and to remove any drains.
• Restricted activities may be recommended for a few days.
• Complete antibiotic course if prescribed.

Alternatives

• Antibiotic therapy alone
• Needle aspiration (less invasive)
• Observation in mild cases

Pros and cons vary based on the severity of infection; surgical drainage is generally more effective for extensive infections.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain. Post-procedure, there may be tenderness and discomfort at the site which can be managed with pain medications. Comfort measures include applying cold packs and keeping the area elevated.