[Treatment of anal abscesses].

Anal abscesses are well-known conditions worldwide. The golden standard of acute treatment is incision and drainage. Knowledge of the anatomy of the anal area and the abscess involvement of perianal spaces is crucial in order to perform safe and correct surgical treatment as summarised in this review. Pre- and perioperative imaging with magnetic resonance imaging, endoanal ultrasonography or CT facilitates correct incision and drainage, while antibiotics as conservative approach have no place in the treatment of abscesses. One third of the patients have an underlying fistula, and if suspected referral to a fistula centre is warranted.