The LOOP Trial in Treatment of Skin Abscesses

The LOOP Trial: A Study Comparing the Use of the LOOP Technique Versus Standard Incision and Drainage in the Treatment of Skin Abscesses in a Level I Emergency Department

This prospective, randomized controlled trial enrolled a convenience sample of adults and children presenting to two Level 1 trauma centers over 12-months with subcutaneous skin abscesses necessitating drainage. Two methods of drainage were compared: 1) the LOOP technique or 2) standard packing technique.

This prospective, randomized controlled trial enrolled a convenience sample of adults and children presenting to two Level 1 trauma centers over 12-months with subcutaneous skin abscesses necessitating drainage. Patients were excluded if the abscess was on the hand, foot, or face or if it required admission or operative intervention. Patients were followed over 10 days to determine the primary outcome of treatment failure defined by need for admission, IV antibiotics, or repeat drainage within 10-day follow-up. The secondary outcomes included ease of procedure, ease of care, pain after insertion and patient satisfaction using a 10-point numeric rating.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subcutaneous skin abscesses necessitating drainage

Exclusion Criteria:

• Abscess was on the hand, foot, or face
• Requiring admission or operative intervention