If the abscess is drained by the surgeon, we suggest that your care at home include warm baths after each bowel movement. This will clean and soothe the area while it is healing. The physician may also prescribe antibiotics for your child.
Fistulectomy incisions are 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.
- Pain Management
- Care for Dressings
- Bathing Restrictions
- Activity Restrictions
- Do I see the surgeon again after the operation?
- When do I call the surgeon's office?
Pain Management
Prescription pain medication is not routinely required after this operation. Children usually only need Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or Ibuprophen (Motrin®) once they are at home. Follow the dosage directions on the label.
Care for Dressings
After the operation there may be a small dressing to remove from the area. The surgeon will tell you when to remove the dressing, if one is present. If the dressing falls out on it's own before that time, it will not need to be replaced.
Bathing Restrictions
Your child may bathe immediately after surgery.
Activity Restrictions
There are no specific activity restrictions following surgery.
Do I see the surgeon again after the operation?
If all is going well, a visit to our office may not be required. Our pediatric nurse practitioner will call you to check on your child's recovery. In some cases, even after a successful operation and careful care at home, it is possible for an abscess or fistula to come back in a different area. If this happens, you will need to return the office for a visit with the Pediatric Surgeon.
When do I call the surgeon's office?
Call our office at 415-476-2538 for the following:
- Any concerns you have about your child's recovery
- A temperature of 101°F or higher
- Increasing pain and tenderness at the incision