South Dakota medicine : the journal of the South Dakota State Medical Association
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Skin abscesses can be a significant source of morbidity and are frequently encountered by physicians across the country. Incision and drainage (I&D) remains the standard of care; however, significant variability exists in the treatment of abscesses after I&D. Some recent evidence has suggested that routinely performed treatment modalities may not be beneficial. We examine the available evidence investigating if I&D alone is sufficient as the sole management for the treatment of uncomplicated abscesses, specifically focusing on wound packing and post-procedural antibiotics. ⋯ Regardless of supplemental post-procedural treatment, all studies demonstrate high rates of clinical cure following I&D. While the number of studies is small, there is data to support the elimination of abscess packing and routine avoidance of antibiotics post-I&D in an immunocompetent patient; however, antibiotics should be considered in the presence of high risk features. Due to limited studies and conflicting data, we are unable to make a recommendation in support or opposition of adjunctive post-procedural packing and antibiotics in an immunocompromised patient.