Name of the Procedure:

Incision and Drainage Abscess; Peritonsillar
Common names: Peritonsillar abscess drainage, Quinsy drainage

Summary

Incision and drainage of a peritonsillar abscess is a procedure where a doctor makes a small cut to remove pus from an infected, swollen area near the tonsils. This helps to relieve pain and treat the infection.

Purpose

This procedure addresses a peritonsillar abscess, often resulting from tonsillitis. The goals are to alleviate pain, reduce infection, and prevent complications such as difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Indications

• Severe sore throat and difficulty swallowing
• Swelling near the tonsils
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Fever and chills
• A "hot potato" voice (muffled voice)

Preparation

• The patient may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Inform the doctor of all medications and allergies.
• Pre-procedure assessments may include blood tests and a throat examination.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated and given a local anesthetic to numb the area.
2. The doctor uses a needle or small scalpel to make an incision in the swollen area near the tonsils.
3. Pus is drained from the abscess.
4. The area may be flushed with a saline solution.
5. A suction device might be used to remove any remaining fluid.

Tools and equipment:

• Scalpel or needle
• Suction device
• Saline solution

Anesthesia:

• Local anesthesia is typically used. Sedation may be considered for anxious patients.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital.

Personnel

• ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist or surgeon
• Nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is required)

Risks and Complications

• Pain and bleeding at the incision site
• Infection
• Recurrence of the abscess
• Rarely, damage to surrounding tissues and structures

Benefits

• Quick relief from pain and swelling
• Treatment of the infection
• Prevention of complications such as airway obstruction

Recovery

• Patients may need to rest for a few hours post-procedure.
• Pain management with prescribed medication.
• Follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a few days.

Alternatives

• Antibiotics: Less invasive, but might not be enough if the abscess is large.
• Needle aspiration: Less invasive but may not drain all the pus.
• Tonsillectomy: Permanent removal of tonsils but involves more recovery time.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or pain during the procedure despite local anesthesia.
• Immediate relief from pressure upon drainage.
• Sore throat and mild pain for a few days post-procedure, manageable with painkillers.
• Advice on maintaining hydration and a soft food diet temporarily.

Pain management and comfort measures:

• Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
• Post-procedure pain is managed with medications and home care instructions.