Perianal abscess – assessment and referral
A perianal abscess is an acute, painful collection of pus near the anus. It almost always requires surgical drainage in hospital under general anaesthesia. At Kirurgen.dk we assess the condition and refer you onward quickly.
Written and medically reviewed by Bahir Hadi, consultant surgeon, PhD
Symptoms – when to seek help
- Sudden throbbing pain near the anus, worse on sitting or defecation.
- Visible red, warm, tender swelling at the anal opening.
- Fever, chills or general malaise.
- Pus or blood from the anus.
Why we don't operate in the clinic
A perianal abscess often extends deep into tissue around the sphincter. Proper drainage requires general anaesthesia, an operating theatre and simultaneous assessment for an anal fistula – we cannot offer this on an outpatient basis.
Our assessment at Kirurgen.dk
The specialist performs a clinical examination, supplemented if needed by endoanal ultrasound. This ensures a fast, targeted referral to the right department.
Referral – where do we send you?
We typically refer to an acute surgical department in the Capital Region of Denmark:
- Herlev Hospital – Department of Surgery.
- Hvidovre Hospital – Gastro Unit.
- Bispebjerg Hospital – Department of Surgery.
- Hillerød (Nordsjællands Hospital) – Department of Surgery.
- Private hospital of your choice, if you have health insurance.
After drainage
Up to 30–50% of patients later develop an anal fistula because the connection between the anal gland and skin does not heal. We are happy to provide follow-up assessment at our clinic afterwards.
Book a rapid assessment
Call the clinic or ask your GP to send a referral. In case of acute pain with fever, go directly to the emergency department.
Contact and appointments
Online booking is not available. Please call the clinic or ask your GP for a referral, so we can find the right appointment.
With a referral from your GP, treatment is free under the Danish public health insurance.
Call the clinic
+45 39 64 01 25
Phone hours
Phone hours: Mon–Thu 09:00–12:00
Address
Hans Edvard Teglers Vej 9, 1st floor · 2920 Charlottenlund