Name of the Procedure:

Intraoral Incision and Drainage of Abscess, Cyst, or Hematoma of the Tongue or Floor of Mouth; Submental Space

Summary

This procedure involves making a small incision inside the mouth to drain an abscess, cyst, or hematoma located on the tongue, floor of the mouth, or submental space (area under the chin). This helps to relieve infection, improve symptoms, and prevent further complications.

Purpose

This procedure is performed to treat infections, fluid collections, or bleeding under the tongue or in the floor of the mouth that could cause pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues. It helps to remove infected material and promote healing.

Indications

• Presence of a painful and swollen area under the tongue or in the floor of the mouth.
• Signs of infection such as fever, redness, and pus formation.
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing due to swelling.
• Identified abscess, cyst, or hematoma via clinical examination or imaging studies.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• Necessary adjustments to medications, particularly blood thinners, might be required.
• Diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan) to locate and assess the size of the abscess, cyst, or hematoma.
• Preoperative instructions to maintain oral hygiene and to avoid smoking.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually lying down.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, and in some cases, sedation may be used.
3. A small incision is made in the mucosa of the mouth, either on the tongue or the floor of the mouth, to provide access to the abscess, cyst, or hematoma.
4. Draining the fluid, pus, or blood from the affected area using suction or drainage tools.
5. The area is cleaned thoroughly, and sometimes a small drain is placed to prevent re-accumulation of fluid.
6. Stitches may or may not be used to close the incision, depending on the situation.
7. The mouth is irrigated with a saline solution to ensure cleanliness and prevent infection.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is commonly performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Oral and maxillofacial surgeon or ENT specialist
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding
• Swelling and bruising
• Pain or discomfort
• Damage to nearby structures, such as nerves or blood vessels
• Recurrence of the abscess, cyst, or hematoma

Benefits

• Relief from pain, swelling, and infection.
• Improved ability to swallow and breathe comfortably.
• Faster healing of the affected area.
• Prevention of recurrent infections or complications.

Recovery

• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove any drains, if placed.
• Soft or liquid diet for a few days.
• Good oral hygiene practices to prevent infection.
• Avoidance of strenuous activities and smoking during initial recovery.
• Typical recovery time varies from a few days to a week, depending on the individual case.

Alternatives

• Antibiotic therapy for managing mild infections without abscess formation.
• Needle aspiration for drainage of smaller fluid collections.
• Observation and watchful waiting in minor cases without severe symptoms.

Patient Experience

The patient may experience a sense of relief from pressure and pain after the procedure. Some discomfort and mild swelling are expected but manageable with prescribed pain relievers. Proper post-procedure care and adherence to the doctor's instructions are crucial for a smooth and quick recovery.