Hot off the press: Loop technique versus drainage and packing in emergency department abscess management

Abstract

Historically, cutaneous abscesses have been managed with incision and drainage involving packing with ribbon gauze. However actual practice patterns vary widely and the less invasive loop drainage technique has been popularized. We discuss a randomized controlled study by Ladde et al published in Academic Emergency Medicine, December 2020, comparing insertion of a vessel loop through the abscess with standard packing. We provide critical analysis and summarize social media discussion about the article.