1239 Microbiology, Culture and Sensitivity Analysis During Drainage of Non-Perianal Soft-Tissue Abscesses: Do We Review the Results and How Often Do They Change Management?

Abstract Aim The utility in obtaining microbiology, culture, and sensitivity (MC&S) specimens during drainage of soft-tissue abscesses is controversial. This study aimed to determine if routine MC&S analysis changed management after non-perianal abscesses. Method A retrospective review was undertaken consecutive patients undergoing for superficial between July November 2021. Data recorded included whether an specimen taken, the result, any antimicrobial treatment clinical outcome. Using Auditing functions inbuilt software, surgical team had subsequently reviewed result also determined. Results 76 underwent abscess drainage, located pilonidal region (32%), axillary (24%), buttock groin (11%), neck (5%) trunk (5%). sent from 52 cases (69%). were by 6 (11%). Samples positive 34 (65%). Mixed organisms most common finding (28 cases) not performed on these samples. Methicillin-sensitive S aureus cultured 4 (8%), Methicillin-resistant 1 case (2%) Staphylococcus lugdenensis (2%). Post-operative antibiotics prescribed 25 patients. required a further course postoperatively all taken but showed no growth. Conclusions Few results did guide case. These support hypothesis that sampling typical low-risk