Therapy of a neck abscess

In many cases, conservative therapy consisting of antibiotic treatment and draining therapy is often sufficient for a neck abscess. Especially ointments and creams containing tar have the property to extract fluid from encapsulations. If this does not succeed, an attempt can be made to puncture the swelling with a sterile needle or cannula and drain the pus.

Often, however, abscess formation occurs again despite successful opening of the abscess. In this case a surgical removal of the cervical abscess should be considered. It is important to note that there are important anatomical structures in the area of the neck (e.g. nerves and vessels), which must not be injured.

For this reason, the surgical procedure in the area of the neck, in addition to the other abscess operations elsewhere in the body, involves some risks that must be explained to the patient and which may make it necessary to extend the operation. Injury to blood vessels can lead to sometimes very heavy bleeding, which may have to be stopped by dilatation surgery. It can also lead to injuries of muscle traits, which can later lead to an impairment of neck movement. Injuries to nerves are another serious risk during surgery.

Surgical removal of the cervical abscess

The underlying disease that caused the neck abscess must be treated. Besides, the neck abscess must be removed surgically. Depending on age and individual factors, the procedure is performed under general or local anesthesia.

There are different operation methods. In some cases a puncture is performed. It serves to relieve the abscess.

In other cases a surgical opening of the abscess cavity is performed. The aim here is also to allow the pus to escape. In addition, damaged tissue areas are removed.

In some cases, the incision must be widened. It can also happen that the palatal tonsils have to be removed during the operation. In addition, drainage systems can be placed inside and/or outside the mouth.

In addition, antibiotic carriers can be introduced in various forms. Frequently, a further antibiotic treatment in tablet form or by infusion is carried out postoperatively. The aim of the specialist staff is to provide the best possible advice and treatment before, during and after the operation.

In some cases, however, complications can still occur. Bleeding, secondary bleeding and scarring may follow. The risk of bleeding and secondary bleeding, especially during tonsillectomy, is high.

It is possible that nerves are irritated or injured during the surgical procedure. This can cause reversible or irreversible disorders. These can lead to numbness, pain, impaired taste, swallowing and speech, restricted movement and paralysis.

Tissue and structures in the vicinity of the abscess can be irritated or damaged. Allergic reactions may occur. Wound healing disorders occur less frequently.