Recovery and Complications After Anal Abscess Surgery

Q: Recovery and Complications After Anal Abscess Surgery

Answer： Sitting down may cause a sensation of soreness and is likely related to the depth of the wound. <br>This should gradually improve as the wound heals. <br>I cannot provide a definite answer on how long the drainage will take, as it depends on the findings during the surger

Anal abscess

Hello Doctor, I underwent a right anal abscess drainage surgery on May 12.
The doctor mentioned that the abscess was located deep, so I had to go to the operating room, and a drainage tube was placed for two days.
Recently, while taking a warm sitz bath, I tried to sit on my right side (previously, I avoided it because it was painful and sat on my left side instead) and noticed a dull ache on the right side, which is somewhat uncomfortable.
I had a family member check it, and the wound has not fully healed yet.

Could you please tell me if the soreness when sitting is related to the depth of the wound? Additionally, how long does it typically take to recover from anal abscess drainage? The doctor mentioned that during the drainage, the internal opening was not visible, and the CT scan did not show it either.
The external opening was made by the doctor (there was originally no external opening).
The doctor said that since it is close to the rectum, there might be a fistula, and advised me to consult a colorectal specialist for a detailed examination if it recurs.

I would like to know what specific examinations I should request from the colorectal specialist if a recurrence occurs.

A-Liang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/25

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Answer: Sitting down may cause a sensation of soreness and is likely related to the depth of the wound.
This should gradually improve as the wound heals.
I cannot provide a definite answer on how long the drainage will take, as it depends on the findings during the surgery and the position of the drainage tube.
You will need to consult the surgeon for that information.
If there is a recurrence, just inform the colorectal surgeon that you have had surgery for an anal fistula and that the internal opening was not found at that time.
The other physicians will arrange the necessary examinations on their own.

Reply Date: 2017/05/25

More Info

After undergoing surgery for an anal abscess, particularly one that required drainage due to its depth, it is common to experience discomfort and a prolonged recovery period. The surgery you had on May 12 involved an incision to drain the abscess, which can lead to various sensations during the healing process.
Firstly, the "sour" or uncomfortable feeling you experience when sitting on the right side is likely related to the surgical site and the depth of the incision. The area around the anus is highly sensitive, and any surgical intervention can lead to discomfort as the tissues heal. The fact that you have been favoring your left side while sitting may have also contributed to muscle tension or discomfort on the right side. It is essential to allow your body time to heal, and as the wound continues to recover, these sensations should gradually diminish.

Regarding the recovery timeline, healing from an anal abscess drainage can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, the initial healing of the incision may take about 1 to 2 weeks, but complete recovery, including the resolution of any discomfort and the healing of deeper tissues, can take several weeks to months. It is crucial to follow your doctor's post-operative care instructions, including maintaining hygiene and possibly continuing sitz baths to promote healing.

As for the concern about a potential fistula (an abnormal connection between the anal canal and the skin), it is wise to be vigilant. If your doctor suspects that a fistula may develop due to the proximity of the abscess to the rectum, they may recommend further evaluation if you experience recurrent symptoms. If you do have a recurrence, you should inform the colorectal specialist about your previous abscess and the surgical history. They may perform a physical examination and possibly recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or endoanal ultrasound, to assess for the presence of a fistula or any other complications.

In summary, the discomfort you are experiencing is likely a normal part of the healing process after anal abscess surgery. Recovery can take time, and it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge) or if the pain worsens, you should seek medical attention promptly. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your recovery and any concerns you may have, especially regarding the possibility of a fistula or other complications.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Anal Abscess Treatment: Risks and Recovery Insights

I went to the hospital for treatment due to an anal abscess. Since I had previously undergone incision and drainage surgery, most of the external pus has been drained. The doctor said I still need to have surgery to remove the internal source; otherwise, it will recur. I'm v...

Dr. Lin Hongmao reply Surgery
Dear NATAKU: After undergoing incision and drainage surgery for an anal abscess and receiving antibiotic treatment, there is a 50% chance of recovery. It is advisable to observe for a while, and if it develops into a chronic fistula, surgery can be performed again. If you have an...

Post-Surgery Recovery: Understanding Anal Fistula Healing Process

Hello Dr. Ke, I had a bit of a lapse in memory around the end of June when I developed an "anal abscess" due to frequent wiping from diarrhea. Initially, I was unaware of the condition and visited a small clinic where I was prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory m...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If an anal abscess is left untreated for too long, there is a higher chance that it will develop into a fistula. This type of fistula is generally more complex to manage and has a higher likelihood of recurrence. Currently, you have undergone drainage of the abscess and a fistulo...

Post-Surgery Concerns After Anal Abscess and Fistula Procedure: Expert Advice Needed

I underwent surgery for an anal abscess and a mild fistula at China Medical University in Taichung on November 6th. Today is the fifth day post-operation, and I would like to ask the physician a few questions regarding my recovery: 1. If I experience frequent diarrhea after tak...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. Laxatives are prescribed to prevent postoperative constipation; if diarrhea occurs, the dosage should be reduced or the medication should be discontinued. 2. Based on this description alone, it is not possible to determine whether it is related to the surgery; a consultation...

Understanding Post-Surgical Complications: Anal Abscess and Infection Risks

Hello, I had surgery for an anal abscess on February 15, and on February 17, I noticed a swelling near the surgical incision about the size of a fingertip. It is slightly painful when pressed. On February 18, the size remained unchanged. Could this be an infection of the wound? I...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Swelling of the wound after incision of an anal abscess is a normal phenomenon. Additionally, if there is a bacterial infection that has not completely healed, it is common for the surrounding soft tissue to feel firm. It is recommended to take warm sitz baths frequently and cont...