Robert C Wright, MD, PS – Puyallup, Washington
Informed Consent – Incision and Drainage of Abscess
Your symptoms and physical exam suggest an abscess. Treatment of the abscess demands surgically
opening and draining (incision and drainage) of the abscess.
Description of the Procedure
The operation may be performed under local or general anesthesia. An incision is made over the abscess.
Loculations (cavities) within the abscess are broken down. The abscess may be irrigated. Either packing
or a drain will be placed into the abscess cavity. Care of the wound after surgery will be demanded on a
daily basis until fully healed.
Additional Procedures that may be done while in Surgery
It is impossible to accurately predict all of the variations that may be encountered during this procedure.
The following procedures will be performed in addition to incision and drainage of the abscess, if deemed
necessary:
1. Wound culture – wound cultures are not always performed, but may be necessary if we feel that
the organisms causing the infection might be unusual.
2. Biopsy – a biopsy will be done if we are suspicious of cancer or a disease process other than a
simple infection.
3. Tissue resection/wound debridement - if there is an area of dead or infected tissue surrounding
the abscess, we may need to also cut that out to get control of the infection.
Risks/Complications of Treatment
Treatment risks fall into two categories; those that could happen during any operation under anesthesia,
and those that are specific for incision and drainage of an abscess. In any medical treatment, it is
impossible to predict all the things that could go wrong. Fortunately, complications are the exception
rather than the rule. Every reasonable effort is made to avoid complications. The most common possible
complications are as follows:
Possible complications of major surgery
1. Bleeding – this is a problem that could happen any time the skin is cut. The need for a blood
transfusion is rare.
2. Reactions to medications – this could be many things from a minor rash to possible death.
3. Reactions to anesthesia and surgery – blood clots, pneumonia, sore throat, or (in rare cases) death
may result from the stress of emergency surgery and anesthesia.
Possible complications of incision and drainage of abscess
1. Delayed wound healing – since the wound is usually not sewn up, healing time is prolonged and
will vary with the location and magnitude of the surgery.
2. Inability to control the infection – the infection may involve multiple cavities, or contain
aggressive bacteria that lead to progression of the infection in spite of what appears to be
adequate treatment.
3. Septic/infectious complications – occasionally, an abscess will lead to a generalized systemic
reaction that could lead to extreme illness or death. Intensive antibiotic therapy may also be
required.
(see other side)
Anticipated Recovery/Expected Rehabilitation
Recovery is quite variable, depending on the individual and the size and severity of the infection. Under
many circumstances, you will be able to return to work the next day. It may take several weeks or more
for the wound to heal in. Dressing changes and daily wound care will be required.
Consent for Treatment
I understand my condition to be an abscess and am aware of its risks if untreated. I have read and
understand the above explanation of the procedure being proposed. My surgeon has answered my
questions, and I choose to proceed with surgery.
I understand that every operation may yield unexpected findings. I give the surgeon permission to
act on his best judgment in deciding to remove or biopsy tissues that appear to be diseased,
understanding that complications may arise from that action.
I understand that while most people with an abscess benefit from the proposed operation, I may
not. My condition may not improve, and it may worsen. No absolute guarantee can be made.
HIPPA: Before and after surgery, unless otherwise requested in writing by you, visitors whom you
invite to attend the surgery will be informed of the surgical findings, your surgical status, and
anticipated recovery issues. Because of the anesthetic, you may or may not remember these
important details.
PRINT NAME__________________________________________________________________________
SIGNATURE ______________________________________________ DATE _________________
WITNESS ________________________________________________ DATE _________________
SURGEON ________________________________________________ DATE _________________
RELATIONSHIP TO PATIENT IF SIGNATURE OF LEGAL GUARDIAN ________________________________
I waive the right to read this form, and do not want to be educated and informed of treatment
risks; nonetheless I understand the need for this surgery and grant permission to the surgeon to
proceed on my behalf.
SIGNATURE _____________________________________________________ DATE ______________
04/04-consent22.pm5