A newer approach advocates for the use of a silicon string, known as a PDS loop for purposes of packing and drainage. While this approach can reduce pain, and is equally effective in terms of healing time, and treatment failure, the PDS, or Vessiloop is not readily available in emergency departments and outpatient clinics, as it is a specialized sterile surgical device used in vascular procedures. Furthermore, this procedure does not facilitate irrigation of the abscess cavity, since a much smaller incision is made. Finally, the PDS loop requires a surgical knot which may come loose.