Soft Tissue Infection: Surgical Drainage Is Key
Paydar KZ, Hansen SL, Charlebois ED, Harris HW, Young DM
Arch Surg. 2006;141:850-856

The aim of this study was to compare the outcome in 450 soft tissue infections in 376 patients treated by surgical drainage and antibiotics. The study was performed in a special clinic designed to provide outpatient wound care for patients in San Francisco; many of the infections developed in drug addicts. In nearly all patients, Staphylococcus aureus was the organism responsible for the infection. Only178 patients received the antibiotic that was appropriate for the agent responsible for the infection, yet the cure rates were nearly identical in patients receiving appropriate vs inappropriate antibiotics.

The unique design of this report provides information on the relative importance of surgical drainage and antibiotics for management of S aureus infection. Based on the similar results when appropriate vs inappropriate antibiotics were administered, it appears that surgical drainage is the key component of successful resolution of soft tissue infection. The findings suggest that initial antibiotic therapy may not be necessary for this type of soft tissue infection.

Abstract