Lancing (surgical procedure)

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Lancing is a minor surgical procedure to release pus or pressure built up under the skin, such as from an abscess or boil. It is performed by treating the area with an antiseptic, such as iodine based solution, and then making a small incision to puncture the skin using a sterile instrument such as a pointed scalpel, lancet or hypodermic needle. This allows the pus fluid to escape by draining out through the incision.

Good medical practice for large abdominal abscesses requires insertion of a drainage tube, proceeded by insertion of a PICC line to enable readiness of treatment for possible septic shock.