Peritonsillar abscess drainage (anesthesia and hospitalization costs not included)
Comandarea acestui serviciu anulează reducerea.*
Please note that self-interpretation of test results is not acceptable; the information below is for informational purposes only.
Incision and drainage of a peritonsillar abscess is a minor but essential procedure aimed at evacuating purulent content, reducing local pressure, and relieving acute symptoms. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia (or general anesthesia in complicated cases).
A peritonsillar abscess (also known as a tonsillar abscess) is a localized purulent collection that develops between the capsule of the palatine tonsil and the superior constrictor muscle of the pharynx. It is the result of a bacterial infection, most often secondary to an untreated or inadequately treated acute tonsillitis. It is the most common deep suppurative infection of the oropharyngeal region, predominantly affecting adolescents and young adults.
This condition can cause intense throat pain, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), trismus (restricted mouth opening), and, in severe cases, poses a risk of upper airway obstruction. Prompt intervention is crucial to prevent complications such as mediastinitis, sepsis, or extension of the abscess to the deep cervical spaces.
Component | Details |
| Location of purulent collection | Clinical examination + possible ultrasound |
| Local anesthesia | Spray, lidocaine infiltration |
| Incision | A small cut is made in the area of fluctuation |
| Drainage | Evacuation of pus and local disinfection |
| Adjunct treatment | Systemic antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, voice rest |
Incision and drainage represent the definitive treatment for most peritonsillar abscesses. The procedure consists of making an incision in the area of fluctuation, followed by widening the opening with a hemostatic forceps to ensure complete drainage. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for intravenous treatment and continuous monitoring.
Purpose of the procedure:
- Rapid elimination of pus and painful pressure
- Prevention of complications (mediastinitis, sepsis, airway obstruction)
- Improvement in breathing and swallowing
- Reduction in the need for hospitalization or major surgical interventions
Indications:
- Intense unilateral throat pain
- Severe difficulty swallowing or trismus (jaw muscle spasm)
- Persistent fever and unilateral tonsillar inflammation
- Presence of a localized purulent collection (clinically or imaging confirmed)
Recovery:
- Rapid relief after drainage
- Continuation of antibiotic treatment for 7–10 days
- Voice rest and proper hydration
- Medical follow-up in 3–5 days
Incision and drainage of a peritonsillar abscess is a simple yet vital procedure that eliminates the local infection and prevents major complications. It is the standard treatment during the acute phase of the abscess and ensures rapid symptom relief.
Sources:
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2017/0415/p501.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519520/
IMPORTANT!
It is very important to note that the information in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing pain or a worsening of your condition, you must consult a physician for diagnostic investigations. Only a qualified medical professional can establish a correct diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
For the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to perform all analyses in the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and measurement units for similar investigations.
