Novel technique for management of Bartholin gland cysts and abscesses.
BACKGROUND
Definitive methods for treatment of a Bartholin cyst and abscess include placement of a Word catheter, marsupialization, application of silver nitrate, and surgical excision. Placement of a Word catheter is the most frequently employed technique for office and emergency department (ED) management. However, many institutions do not have the Word catheter available; in addition, the catheter has a tendency to dislodge before epithelialization, leading to recurrence of the cyst.


OBJECTIVE
We have developed a simple technique for management of Bartholin gland abscess or cyst using readily available materials. This technique involves using a small loop of plastic tubing, which is secured to prevent expulsion before epithelialization of a drainage tract.


METHODS
A 25-year-old woman presented to the ED with a Bartholin gland abscess. After administration of local anesthetic, a loop of tubing was placed, allowing for drainage of the abscess. The patient was discharged home with a course of oral antibiotics. At 3-week follow-up, the Bartholin gland abscess was found to be healed; the device was removed without difficulty, leaving two drainage tracts.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique may be used as an alternative to placement of a Word catheter for management of Bartholin gland abscess or cyst.
Kushnir
Vitaly A
VA
Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey 07101-1709, USA.
Mosquera
Claudia
C
D000038:Abscess / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D001472:Bartholin's Glands / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D001494:Baths; D003560:Cysts / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011182:Postoperative Care; D013396:Suction / Q000379:methods*; D014845:Vulvar Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents