Superficial Abscesses Research Articles

Improving the Consent Process for Superficial Abscesses Through Pre-printed Consent Forms

Improving the Consent Process for Superficial Abscesses Through Pre-printed Consent Forms

The histologic diagnosis and the management of cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis: a case report

BackgroundCystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis is a rare subtype of inflammatory mastitis characterized by a distinct histopathologic pattern, often associated with Corynebacterium species. This entity has been recently distinguished and should be differentiated from other types of chronic idiopathic mastitis due to its specific treatment.Case presentationA 44-year-old North African female patient, gravida 2, para 2, with no significant past medical history, presented with a 4-month history of a painful palpable mass in her left breast, with no history of trauma. Ultrasound imaging showed three lesions in the lower quadrant of the left breast, communicating with a superficial areolar abscess collection, creating a fistulous path to the skin. This ultrasound appearance was suspicious for suppurative mastitis; although, a necrotic tumor could not be ruled out. An ultrasound-guided needle biopsy revealed inflammatory and abscess features of the breast parenchyma without histological signs of malignancy. Steroid therapy and empirical antimicrobial treatment were started, and surgical excision was performed. Histologic features confirmed the diagnosis of cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis. The patient recovered and was discharged due to clinical improvement.ConclusionCystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis is a recently defined entity, and its association with infection by Corynebacterium species can be detected by Gram stain and/or microbiological culture. Various treatment modalities are suggested, but the optimal treatment still requires further investigation.

Percutaneous ultrasound-guided anchor wire placement aids in the intraoperative localization of nonpalpable, superficial foreign bodies and abscesses in dogs.

To describe and evaluate the use of preoperative percutaneous ultrasound-guided anchor wire placement to aid intraoperative localization of superficial foreign bodies and abscesses in dogs. 11 dogs. In a retrospective observational study, the medical records of dogs that underwent surgical exploration of superficial abscesses, guided by anchor wire, between 2018 and 2023 were reviewed for clinical and histopathological findings and complications. Owners or veterinarians were contacted to collect long-term follow-up information. 11 dogs were included. Superficial swelling was the most common clinical presentation. Computed tomography and ultrasound revealed an abscess cavity and suspected foreign body in 9 dogs and an abscess cavity without evidence of a foreign body in 2 dogs. Anchor wires were placed in close proximity to the foreign body or inside the abscess. All documented foreign bodies were successfully located and retrieved. Two dogs suffered minor postoperative complications. No major intra- or postoperative complications were documented. One dog displayed recurrence of clinical signs, but no further surgical management was required. Preoperative percutaneous placement of an anchor wire via ultrasound guidance was successful in aiding intraoperative localization of nonpalpable abscesses and retrieval of foreign bodies. This technique may decrease surgical time, minimize the surgical approach required, and increase the likelihood of successful localization.

Reprint-Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Case Report and A Review of the Literature

Necrotizing fasciitis is a soft-tissue infection characterized by extensive necrosis of subcutaneous fat, neurovascular structures, and fascia. In general, fascial necrosis precedes muscle and skin involvement, hence its namesake. Initially, this uncommon and rapidly progressive disease process can present as a form of cellulitis or superficial abscess. However, the high morbidity and mortality rates associated with necrotizing fasciitis suggest a more serious, ominous condition. Diagnosis may be delayed because of the initial minimal skin cellulitis, even as the subcutaneous tissue suffers extensive necrosis and pronounced systemic toxicity develops. A delay in diagnosis can result in progressive advancement highlighted by widespread infection, multiple-organ involvement, and, ultimately, death. Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) might be useful in cases where signs are equivocal or diagnosis is in doubt. Computed tomography scans are estimated to have a sensitivity of 80% for detecting necrotizing soft tissue infections. We present a case of limb salvage in a 52-year-old patient with misunderstood type 2 diabetes mellitus and progressive fascial necrosis. A detailed review of the literature is presented, and current treatment modalities are described. Aggressive surgical debridement, comprehensive medical management of the sepsis and comorbidities, and timely closure of the resultant wound or wounds are essential for a successful outcome. Necrotizing fasciitis is a soft tissue infection characterized by extensive necrosis of subcutaneous fat, neurovascular structures and fascia. Background: the characteristic of this case was aggression and rapid extension. Case presentation: a 59-year-old woman was observed in a very serious condition, with fever and a large necrotic area that smelled of the right inguinal-femoral region in extension to the thigh. No history of illness. Obesity. Diagnosis may be delayed due to minimal initial cutaneous cellulite. A delay in diagnosis can lead to the progression of the disease shown by shock, multiple organ failure and, ultimately, death. Computed tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging could be useful in cases where the signs are equivocal or the diagnosis is in doubt. A detailed review of the literature is presented and the current treatment modalities are described. In this case, the aggressive surgical debridement, the complete medical management of sepsis and comorbidities and the timely closure of the wound by dermo-epidermal grafting were essential for a positive result. Conclusions: necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon life-threatening soft tissue infection, which spreads rapidly and progressively along the deep fascia. The prognosis depends on accurate diagnosis and immediate treatment.

The Radiographic Characteristics of Mandibular Wisdom Teeth That Can Cause Severe Deep Neck Infection.

Mandibular wisdom teeth can occasionally cause infections, which can progress to severe deep neck infections (DNIs) including deep neck abscesses or necrotizing soft tissue infections, which are fatal. This study aimed to identify the radiographic characteristics of mandibular wisdom teeth that developed severe DNIs. This study included patients who were admitted for the treatment of severe mandibular wisdom tooth infection between July 2012 and June 2024 at a single center. Patient characteristics, clinical data, and radiographic findings were analyzed and compared between the severe DNI group and mild DNI group including patients with cellulitis or superficial abscess. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Nineteen of 42 patients (45.2%) were included in the severe DNI group. The multivariate analysis showed that the highest odds ratio (OR) was for the presence of a radicular cyst (OR=17.7), followed by the presence of a dentigerous cyst (OR =14.5). The most common mandibular wisdom tooth with a dentigerous cyst in patients with severe DNIs was inverted according to Winter's classification and type IIIC in the Pell and Gregory classification. Radiographic characteristics associated with severe DNIs included the presence of radicular and dentigerous cysts in the mandibular wisdom teeth. Especially in dentigerous cysts, deeply impacted teeth should be taken attention.

Novel drug sampling technique: portal vein catheterization in steers.

To determine the feasibility of catheterizing the portal vein to obtain serial portal vein blood samples in steers. We hypothesized that the portal vein catheterization would be a successful continuous sampling technique with minimal adverse effects in steers. 2 groups of steers were used: a pilot group (n = 2) and experimental group (n = 6). In both groups, steers were sedated with xylazine. The right rib spaces were clipped and aseptically prepped. The portal vein was visualized via ultrasound, and a 14-gauge catheter was placed percutaneously and advanced into the portal vein. A guide wire was passed through the catheter, followed by a tissue dilator and then a vascular balloon catheter. In the pilot group, blood chemistries were performed prior to portal vein catheterization and then again once the catheter was placed (with samples from both the jugular vein and portal catheter). The liver was also examined at necropsy for any gross lesions in both groups. All steers tolerated the portal vein catheters well, with the catheters lasting for the full length of the study period (7 days). The only observed adverse reaction was a superficial abscess at the catheter site (n = 3). On necropsy, 1 liver had gross discoloration, but no other abnormalities were noted. There were no significant changes in biochemistry profiles before or after portal vein catheterization. Portal vein catheterization is a novel and feasible serial sampling technique of the portal vein. This technique can be used in future pharmacokinetic, nutrition, metabolism, or toxicity studies.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus-associated empyema necessitans in a child: A case report and a literature review.

Empyema is a known complication of severe pleuropneumonia. In rare cases, if poorly treated, it could result in dissemination and fistulization and transformation into empyema necessitans. The manifestation may appear as a superficial abscess. However, as management highly differs, the recognition of potentially severe phenomenon is required. We describe a case of empyema necessitans on a 4-year-old girl secondary to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. It represents the sixth pediatric case reported in the literature. It was managed by open drainage and prolonged antibiotherapy. The outcome was favorable as guidelines were extracted from similar reported cases. Empyema necessitans remains a rare complication with significant morbidity. Prompt diagnosis and adapted management have relied on limited literature. As such, further reports are necessary to establish proper guidelines.

A multicentre observational study of paediatric head and neck abscesses

IntroductionIn winter of 2022/3 paediatric ENT surgeons across the UK observed that the incidence of severe abscesses in the head and neck and associated complications was higher than seen in previous years. We aimed to collate and evaluate data from across the UK to establish if this was a true rise in cases, and to describe the factors associated. MethodsA multicentre retrospective data collection was undertaken from 13 units across the UK. Patients admitted between September 2022–February 2023 with a head and neck abscess including sinogenic, otogenic, deep and superficial neck abscesses were included. Demographic, disease specific, management and outcome data were collected. Hospital episode statistic data were also requested and analysed to allow for comparison with previous 10 years of head and neck abscesses. Results262 patients with abscesses of the head and neck were admitted during the study period, 100 between September and November and 163 between December and February. Mastoid abscesses were the most common abscess across both groups. The rate of group A streptococcus + culture results rose significantly from 12 % in autumn group to 30 % in winter (p = 0.02). The rate of intracranial complications rose from 10 % to 18 % (p = 0.11) and the rate of venous thrombosis rose over the same timeframe from 3 % to 14 % (p = 0.01). DiscussionThis study demonstrated a statistically significant rise in the rate of group A streptococcus associated abscesses when comparing Autumn and Winter 2022/2023. Over the same timeframe a statistically significant rise in the proportion of patients with venous thromboses associated with H&N abscesses was noted. Interestingly, despite perceived national consensus regarding a spike in abscess incidence, the number of abscesses seen in winter 2022/2023 was in keeping with expected rates of paediatric H&N abscesses, based on pre covid year-on-year rise in incidence.

The Etiological and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of the Bacteria Obtained from Ovine Caseous Lymphadenitis Cases in the Çankırı Region, Türkiye.

Sheep caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) causes significant economic losses in the livestock sector by causing a loss in the quantity and quality of animal products and a loss in the breeding value of animals. Although the primary agent in CLA's etiology is Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, some other opportunistic microorganisms also play a role. Therefore, the control and treatment of CLA necessitates the identification of the relevant etiological agents. This study aimed to conduct an in vitro culture and molecular characterization (PCR analysis and 16S rRNA sequencing) of the bacteria involved in sheep CLA cases reported in the Çankırı province of Türkiye and determine the antibiotic susceptibility of the case isolates. In total, 82 (16.4%) of 500 sheep in five farms were diagnosed with CLA. Following the culture of the superficial abscesses samples, C. pseudotuberculosis was identified in 30 (36.59%) as a result of PCR, Pseudomonas spp. in 8 (9.76%), and Enterobacter cancerogenus in 1 (1.22%), as a result of 16S rRNA sequencing. These data revealed extensive heterogeneity among the Pseudomonas isolates, with hints of derivation from a common ancestry for some and phylogenetic similarity to isolates from Germany, Malaysia, and India. In contrast to the high susceptibility to cefoperazone and lincomycin, the high resistances of C. pseudotuberculosis and Pseudomonas spp. isolates to cephalothin, ceftiofur, cloxacillin, amoxicillin, and bacitracin were remarkable. Based on these findings, it was concluded that for an effective treatment and control of ovine CLA cases, there is a need to consider the possible involvement of opportunistic bacteria other than the primary causative agent, C. pseudotuberculosis. It also contributed to increasing the country-specific sequence data and establishing new taxa from a universal perspective.

A Rare Case of Superficial Temporal Space Abscess Arising from Lower Wisdom Tooth

A Rare Case of Superficial Temporal Space Abscess Arising from Lower Wisdom Tooth

Prospective Randomized Study of Needle Aspiration vs Incision and Drainage in Superficial Abscess

Prospective Randomized Study of Needle Aspiration vs Incision and Drainage in Superficial Abscess

Pericardial Effusion and Superficial Abdominal Abscess as Complications of Malposed PICC Line in a Preterm Neonate: A Case Report

In neonatal critical care units, peripherally inserted central catheter lines are frequently used to provide venous access for continuous parenteral nutrition and medications in newborns. In this case report, a male neonate weighing 1270 grams was on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for hyaline membrane disease and initially received Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) through a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) in the left long saphenous vein on the second day. The baby developed tachycardia, respiratory distress requiring mechanical ventilation, and erythematous swelling over the paraumbilical region. A diagnosis of pericardial effusion and superficial abdominal abscess secondary to a malposed PICC line in a preterm, very low birth weight neonate was made. Suspecting a misplaced line, it was immediately removed, and the patient showed improvement over the next 24 hours. Within the next 48 hours, the patient was extubated to CPAP. Therefore, daily inspection by an expert, as well as confirmation of the central line tip, will aid in preventing delays in detecting complications.

Management of segmental defects post open distal femur fracture using a titanium cage combined with the Masquelet technique A single-centre report of 23 cases

IntroductionThe segmental bone defects post open distal femur fracture presents a reconstructive challenge, which often requires extreme solutions. The present study reviewed a new treatment strategy which used a cylindrical titanium mesh cage as an adjunct to the Masquelet technique. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of 23 patients treated for segmental bone defects post open distal femur fracture using a titanium mesh cage combined with the Masquelet technique under a 2-staged protocol in our institution from 2017 to 2021. The study group consisted of 13 men and 10 women with an average age of 44.1 years. The surgical debridement was performed with antibiotic polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement spacer implanted into the bone defect combined with cement-wrapped plate stabilization, or antibiotic beads with vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) to cover the wound. The second stage of the Masquelet technique for bone defect repair began at least 4–6 weeks after the first stage, once all signs of possible infection were eliminated. After the cement spacer was removed, the definitive reconstruction was completed with exchange to a cylindrical titanium mesh cage filled with cancellous autograft within the induced membrane. The bone defect with cage was stabilized with a distal femoral Less Invasive Stabilization System (LISS). The radiological and clinical records of the enrolled patients were retrospectively analyzed. ResultsThe mean follow-up was 38.6 months. The average number of operations before the second stage was 1.3. The mean interval between the two stages was 12.7 weeks. The average length of the defect measured 8.3 cm (ranging from 6.1 to 12.4 cm). All the defects filled with autograft within the cage achieved bony union, with a mean healing time of 8.4 months. At the latest follow-up, the mean knee extension measured 6.2° (ranging from 0° to 20°), and the mean flexion measured 101.8° (ranging from 60° to 120°). Complications included two instances of superficial stitch abscess, which eventually healed. ConclusionsThe use of a titanium cage implanted into an induced membrane in a 2-staged Masquelet protocol could achieve satisfactory clinical outcomes in cases of segmental defects following open distal femur fractures.

Effects of caseous lymphadenitis agent (corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis) isolated from superficial abscesses of sheep on oxidative stress factors

In this study, it was aimed to determine the incidence of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis (C. pseudotuberculosis) in caseous lymphadenitis cases in superficial lymph nodes of sheep and to evaluate its effect on oxidative stress factors. Thus, it was aimed to determine the early diagnosability of superficial and visceral caseous lymphadenitis cases and to prevent the spread of diseases and related economic losses. A total of 103 sheep, 50 of which were healthy and 53 of which had caseous lymphadenitis, were evaluated in the study. Microbiological examinations were performed by taking 3-5 ml of pyogenic aspirate from the superficial lymph nodes of sheep with caseous lymphadenitis. Blood samples were taken from sheep with C. pseudotuberculosis isolated in microbiological examinations and the levels of oxidative stress factors were determined. C. pseudotuberculosis was isolated in 23 of the pyogenic aspirates of 53 sheep with caseous lymphadenitis. When sheep isolated from C. pseudotuberculosis were compared with healthy sheep, it was determined that there was a statistically significant decrease in the levels of antioxidant molecules such as GSH-pX (14.62%), GSH (23.81%), SOD (4.70%), CAT (22.23%) (p˂0.001). The level of toxic malondialdehyde (MDA) (18.62%), the end product of lipid peroxidation, was found to be statistically significantly increased in sheep isolated from C. pseudotuberculosis (p˂0.001). As a result, it was determined that oxidative stress factors showed statistically significant variability in cases of superficial caseous lymphadenitis (caused by C.pseudotuberculosis). For this reason, by determining the levels of oxidative stress factors in suspected herds, it was possible to make early diagnosis of the superficial and visceral forms of caseous lymphadenitis, and a basis was established for future studies.

1239 Microbiology, Culture and Sensitivity Analysis During Drainage of Non-Perianal Soft-Tissue Abscesses: Do We Review the Results and How Often Do They Change Management?

Abstract Aim The utility in obtaining microbiology, culture, and sensitivity (MC&amp;S) specimens during drainage of soft-tissue abscesses is controversial. This study aimed to determine if routine MC&amp;S analysis changed management after drainage of non-perianal abscesses. Method A retrospective review was undertaken of consecutive patients undergoing drainage for non-perianal superficial abscesses between July and November 2021. Data recorded included whether an MC&amp;S specimen was taken, the result, any antimicrobial treatment and clinical outcome. Using the Auditing functions inbuilt to the software, whether the surgical team had subsequently reviewed the result was also determined. Results 76 patients underwent abscess drainage, located in the pilonidal region (32%), axillary (24%), buttock (24%), groin (11%), neck (5%) and trunk (5%). MC&amp;S was sent from 52 cases (69%). Results were reviewed by the surgical team in 6 cases (11%). Samples were positive in 34 cases (65%). Mixed organisms were the most common positive finding (28 cases) and sensitivity was not performed on these samples. Methicillin-sensitive S aureus was cultured from 4 cases (8%), Methicillin-resistant S aureus from 1 case (2%) and Staphylococcus lugdenensis from 1 case (2%). Post-operative antibiotics were prescribed for 25 patients. 4 patients required a further course of antibiotics postoperatively and in all these cases MC&amp;S was taken but showed no growth. Conclusions Few MC&amp;S results were reviewed by the surgical team and MC&amp;S results did not guide management in any case. These results support the hypothesis that routine MC&amp;S sampling is not required for typical abscesses in low-risk patients.

A novel low-cost model of superficial abscess for trainee education in incision and drainage

BackgroundProficiency in ultrasound usage is quickly becoming an expectation in multiple residency programs: emergency medicine, obstetrics-gynecology, surgery, and internal medicine. There is a lack of affordable training devices for ultrasound training and identification of superficial fluid collections. We sought to develop a model for trainee education in ultrasound usage, identification of superficial fluid collection, aspiration, and incision & drainage (I&D). Materials & methodsCommercially available products were used to develop a novel, low-cost model for ultrasound-guided aspiration and I&D of an abscess. A latex balloon embedded in silicone gel construct simulated a superficial fluid collection when examined with an ultrasound probe and monitor. A 18-gauge needle on a 10-cc syringe were used for aspiration, and a 15-blade disposal scalpel with 0.25″ packing strip used for I&D. ResultsApproximately six hours are required to generate 24 individual models of a superficial abscess. Following an initial investment, each model costs less than $1 USD to produce. Compared to commercially available models, this represents a significant savings. This model was utilized during the medical school academic year as a teaching aid for medical students to simulate ultrasound-guided identification, aspiration, and incision and drainage of a superficial abscess. ConclusionsWe successfully produced an affordable, low-cost model of a superficial fluid collection for training in ultrasound usage, aspiration, and I&D. The model represents significant savings over commercially available alternatives and can be easily replicated for trainee education.

A Case Study on Scrotal Abscess: An Ayurvedic Approach.

An abscess that is either superficial or intrascrotal is known as a scrotal abscess (see illustration below). Infected hair follicles, infections from scrotal lacerations, or small scrotal procedures are the causes of the superficial scrotal abscess. An internal pus collection in the scrotum is referred to as ascrotal abscess. The skinpouch that houses the testiclesis known as the scrotum. There arenumerous potential causes of this illness. It could result from a bacterial infection in theurethra or bladder that is left untreated. Scrotum infection is a possibility. In addition, sexually transmitted illnesses may be the cause of the syndrome (STDs). Chlamydia and gonorrhea are a couple of STD examples. A supportive tumor that affects the outermost layers of the scrotal wall and is surrounded by erythema is known as a scrotal abscess. A small pustule or papule may typically enlarge over time with increased pain, indurations, or fluctuance as part of the history. Fever and constitutional symptoms are typically absent.

En Bloc Excisions of Chronic Abscesses in Bull: A Case Report

Introduction An abscess is the most common swelling observed on the skin surface of the animal body with a collection of pus due to microbial invasion of the dermis and its supporting structures. Case Description In the present case, nine-years-old male Zebu cattle were presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) with a history of swelling on the cheek. Clinical findings of the mass revealed that there was well-circumscribed, firm, movable cold, and not painful superficial skin swelling on the body of the mandible and check. Culturing on blood agar and gram staining was conducted and then, Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis was isolated from the sample. Following clinical and laboratory finding the case was diagnosed as caseous lymphadenitis and En bloc excision of the case was performed under local infiltration of anesthesia. Conclusion The suture was removed after 15-days post-intervention and the bull was successfully recovered without any other complications. Therefore, management of well-circumscribed, firm, and movable superficial skin abscess in cattle through en bloc excision along with antibacterial therapy and allowing the skin wound to heal by the first intention should be effective.

Management and outcome of Scrotal Abscess

INTRODUCTION: An abscess that is either superficial or intrascrotal is known as a scrotal abscess (see illustration below). Infected hair follicles, infections from scrotal lacerations, or small scrotal procedures are the causes of the superficial scrotal abscess. An internal pus collection in the scrotum is referred to as a scrotal abscess. The skin pouch that houses the testicles is known as the scrotum. There are numerous potential causes of this illness. It could result from a bacterial infection in the urethra or bladder that is left untreated. Scrotum infection is a possibility. In addition, sexually transmitted illnesses may be the cause of the syndrome (STDs). Chlamydia and gonorrhea are a couple of STD examples. A supportive tumor that affects the outermost layers of the scrotal wall and is surrounded by erythema is known as a scrotal abscess. A small pustule or papule may typically enlarge over time with increased pain, indurations, or fluctuance as part of the history. Fever and constitutional symptoms are typically absent.Patient History: -Patient 36-year-old male admitted to the hospital patient was apparently alright 3 days back when he started complaining of pus coming out of the scrotum 3 days it was sudden in onset with progressive it was associated with pain, radiating, aggravated by physical activity and not relieved by medication. Presenting Complaints and Investigation: The patient 36-year-old male admitted to the hospital with pus coming out of his scrotum, patient was apparently alright 3 days back when he started complaining of pus coming out of his scrotum since 3 days it was sudden in onset with progressive it was associated with pain, on radiating, aggravated by physical activity and not relieved by medication. Hb-13.4, MCHV-33.6,MCV-83.6,MCH-28.1,Total RBC Count-4.76,Total Platelet Count-3.24,HCT- 39.8,Monocytes-03,USG- Right sided epididymitis with changes of cellulitis in right inguinal region reactive right-sided inguinal lymphadenopathy. Past History: No prior hospitalizations or medical or surgical illnesses in the past. The main diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and outcome: secondary suturing secondary to incision and drainage of scrotal abscess, Treatment- injceftriaxone1gmivbd, injpiptaz4.5gmivtds, injdoxycycline10mgbd,t.doxyxyline100mgbd,t.chymoralforte2tabstds,t.zifi200mgbd,t.urgendolpbd,t.pantoprazole40mgod,t.limceeod,t.supradynod, t. dolo 650 mg od Conclusion: In order to stop the condition from progressing, it is crucial to remove abscess and pus as soon as possible and provide rapid diagnosis and treatment. Opportunities to improve results are provided through early detection and intervention.

Ambulatory Pathway for the Management of Superficial Abscesses: Criteria for Safe Provision of Care.

BackgroundSuperficial abscesses are common surgical emergencies and unless complicated, are considered a low-priority emergency often leading to delayed primary treatment. Patients who are clinically stable benefit more from an ambulatory-care approach to their treatment.Aim of studyThis is a retrospective study to investigate the current practice of treatment of superficial abscesses at West Suffolk Hospital, United Kingdom, and evaluate the potential impact of implementing care via the ambulatory pathway to improve patients' experience, optimise the use of hospital resources and identify areas for service improvement.Patients and methodsA total of 76 patients who required inpatient care for drainage of their superficial abscess under general anaesthesia over six months were a part of the study. Admission, procedure, and hospital stay characteristics were evaluated as well as our proposed superficial abscess ambulatory-care pathway (SAAP) criteria.ResultsThe mean age was 39 ± 18 years. Perianal and pilonidal abscesses accounted for 53% of the procedures. Only 24% of the patients had a C-reactive protein (CRP) >100 at admission. The average waiting time before intervention was 19 hours (± 16.25) with patients spending two days on average in the hospital for a procedure that lasted an average of 31 minutes. Overall, 39.5% of the patients received drainage of their abscess on the same day of presentation to the hospital with only five discharges on the same day of admission. Of the total patients, 52.6% met our SAAP criteria for ambulatory care and could have avoided inpatient care and benefitted from same-day discharges.ConclusionAmbulatory care of a superficial abscess is a safe, feasible approach. We recommend establishing an ambulatory care pathway for the management of superficial abscess cases with our SAAP criteria serving as a useful objective guide for effective and safe triage of patients with reduced hospital stay and more efficient utilisation of resources.