What is Perirectal Abscess?
This is an infection that appears as a tender red lump under the skin near the anus. This lump can grow large and become painful. This type of abscess happens most often in babies and children under a year of age. It may drain fluid (pus) on its own and then heal and disappear. An abscess that does not drain by itself may need to be drained in the office by the Pediatric Surgeon.
What is Perirectal Fistula?
Sometimes an abscess will return if a fistula, or tube like connection, forms between the inside of the anus and the skin. Once a fistula forms, bacteria from the intestine becomes trapped and causes the infection to return. This is called a perirectal fistula. If your child has a perirectal fistula the Pediatric Surgeon may recommend an operation called a fistulectomy to remove the fistula.
- How is perirectal abscess treated?
- How is a fistulectomy performed?
- Homecare after treatment for abscess and fistulectomy
How is perirectal abscess treated?
An abscess that does not drain by itself may need to be drained in the office by the Pediatric Surgeon. This may be all that is needed to help the abscess heal permanently. The physician may also prescribe antibiotics for your child.
How is a fistulectomy performed?
If your child has a perirectal fistula, a fistulectomy may be recommended to permanently remove the fistula. During this operation the fistula is removed through a small incision into the side of the anus with the abscess. This is an operation that is done as an outpatient and takes less than one hour. After the operation, your child can go home as soon as he or she is awake and able to drink liquids.
The incision that is made during the fistulectomy is left open and not closed with stitches. This open wound will heal and close by itself in one to two weeks. While the area is healing, no infection will occur in the wound, even though your child has bowel movements. You can help keep the area clean by giving your child a warm bath after every bowel movement. An antibiotic is not needed at this time.
In most appendectomy operations, there is very little blood loss. You child will receive blood only in the rare case of an extreme emergency. If you wish to provide a directed donation of blood, contact our office, 1-2 weeks in advance of the operation.