Incision and drainage of an abscess is painful, but it is also painful to pack and repack until the site has healed. I have found that after the initial packing is removed, instilling lidocaine(Drug information on lidocaine) without epinephrine(Drug information on epinephrine) using a syringe without the needle lessens the discomfort and anxiety of repacking considerably. It also encourages return visits because the procedure is less painful.
— Willard R. Baker Jr, MMS, PA-C
Edinburg, Tex
