by M.V., Survival Blog:

(Continued from Part 1. This concludes the article.)

Another type of abscess which might be encountered would be a perianal or perirectal abscess. Though hygiene can play a role it is typically caused by an infection in the perianal crypts which extends into the subcutaneous space. Pain and swelling typically occur as in all abscesses and prompt drainage is necessary. The longer that these progress; the more extensive that they become, so time is of the essence. Drainage is as previously described and your incision should be radially away from the anus as if the anus was a hub on a wheel and the incision is the spoke. You are looking for the softest spot on the swollen area which is typically away from the muscles which you do not want to cut. A generous incision is made with ellipse of skin and care as described previously. Most times you will not need oral antibiotics if you catch these early.