Management of perianal abscesses in infants without general anaesthesia: a systematic review of the literature

Systematic review of 1049 infants demonstrates that perianal abscesses can be successfully managed without general anesthesia in over 75% of cases, with only 5.6% requiring subsequent GA due to fistula-in-ano progression. Evidence supports initial conservative management with antibiotics, local drainage, or observation in infants under 24 months.