Purpose: This randomized study assesses the effects of antibiotics on the formation of fistulae after drainage of anorectal abscesses.
Methods: Patients who underwent abscess drainage in 3 major colorectal units between September 2005 and January 2008 were included. Previous anorectal surgery history, immunecompromised states, pregnancy, inflammatory bowel disease, antibiotic usage prior to surgery and the presence of an anal fistulae at the time of surgery were the exclusion criteria. Patients were randomized and given either placebo or amoxicillin-clavulanic acid combination treatment for 10 days. Patients were followed one year for perianal fistulae formation.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Presence of anorectal abscess
Exclusion Criteria:
* Allergy to penicillin derivatives
* Treatment with any antimicrobial agent in the week before enrolment
* Recognized other infection at the time of surgery
* Previous anorectal surgery
* Presence of inflammatory bowel disease
* Suspicion of Fournier's gangrene
* Secondary and recurrent anorectal abscesses
* Presence of an internal opening
* Any additional surgical procedure performed in the same session or during follow-up
* Antibiotic prophylaxis indicated for another reason
* Immunosuppressive and/or anticoagulant drug treatment being taken at the time of surgery
* Diabetes mellitus
* Known chronic disabling disease
* Pregnancy
* Lactation.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.