Incision and drainage (I and D) is a widely used procedure in various care settings including emergency departments and outpatient clinics. It is the primary treatment for skin and soft tissue abscesses, with or without adjunctive antibiotic therapy. This activity reviews the incision and drainage procedure, risks and benefits. The role of an interprofessional team will be discussed.
Successful treatment of difficult wounds requires assessment of the entire patient and not just the wound. Systemic problems often impair wound healing; conversely, nonhealing wounds may herald systemic pathology.
