Name of the Procedure:

Extraoral Incision and Drainage of Abscess, Cyst, or Hematoma of Floor of Mouth; Masticator Space

• Also known as: Surgical drainage of oral abscess, Extraoral drainage of masticator space lesion

Summary

This procedure involves making an incision on the external surface of the face or neck to drain an abscess, cyst, or hematoma located within the floor of the mouth or masticator space to relieve pressure, reduce infection, and facilitate healing.

Purpose

The primary purpose is to treat severe infections, cysts, or hematomas in the mouth floor or masticator space that could potentially impact breathing, swallowing, and overall oral function. By draining the abscess, cyst, or hematoma, the procedure aims to reduce pain, eliminate infection, and prevent complications.

Indications

• Severe swelling and pain in the mouth floor or masticator space
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Fever and systemic signs of infection
• Failure of other less invasive treatments (e.g., antibiotics)
• Presence of a fluctuant mass or confirmed abscess on imaging

Preparation

• The patient may need to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• Preoperative imaging (e.g., CT scan) might be required to locate the abscess or cyst.
• Blood tests to assess infection levels and general health.
• Adjustments in medication may be needed, including stopping blood thinners.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia will be used, depending on the severity and patient comfort.
2. Incision: An external incision is made at a strategic location to access the abscess, cyst, or hematoma.
3. Drainage: The lesion is then carefully punctured to drain the accumulated fluid, pus, or blood.
4. Debridement: Any infected or necrotic tissue is removed to facilitate healing.
5. Irrigation: The area is thoroughly cleaned with antimicrobial solutions.
6. Closure: The incision may be closed with sutures or left open with a drain inserted to allow continued drainage.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and extent of the condition.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon or a specialized Head and Neck Surgeon
• Surgical Nurses
• Anesthesiologist, if general anesthesia is used

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Damage to nearby structures such as nerves or blood vessels
• Scarring
• Recurrence of the abscess or cyst
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief from pain and swelling
• Resolution of infection
• Prevention of further complications such as airway obstruction
• Improved oral function and overall health

Recovery

• The patient may need to stay under observation for a few hours or overnight if necessary.
• Pain management through prescribed medications.
• Instructions for wound care and hygiene to prevent infection.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove any drains or sutures.
• Restricted activities and avoidance of strenuous exercise for a short period.

Alternatives

• Antibiotic therapy for managing mild infections
• Needle aspiration if the abscess is superficial and small
• Watching and waiting in cases of minimal symptoms and no systemic impact

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Minimal to no pain due to anesthesia; potential discomfort from being in the surgical environment.
• Post-procedure: Initial discomfort managed by pain relief medications; gradual improvement in symptoms within a few days.
• Importance of following post-operative care instructions for optimal recovery and minimizing risk of complications.