Aquacel Versus Iodoform Gauze for Filling Abscess Cavity Following Incision and Drainage

The large increase in the incidence of skin and soft tissue infections cause by methicillin
resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has produced a corresponding increase in the number of
ED patients presenting with abscesses that require incision and drainage. This study compares
Aquacel against routine Iodoform packing for packing abscess cavities after incision and
drainage. It is hypothesized that Aquacel will produce speedier healing of the abscess. More
effective abscess healing will reduce the need for oral antibiotic coverage, which will in
turn reduce the potential for drug resistance caused by indiscriminate use of oral
antibiotics.

Inclusion Criteria:

- presenting to Maricopa Medical Center ED with cutaneous abscess requiring incision and
drainage

Exclusion Criteria:

- known sensitivity to Aquacel

- pregnant, nursing, or expecting to become pregnant

- incarcerated patient

- prior treatment of same abscess with incision and drainage

- multiple abscesses

- immunodeficiency

- facial abscess

- suspected osteomyelitis or septic arthritis

- diabetic foot, decubitis, or ischaemic ulcers

- unable to provide informed consent or assent