Complications of Draining a Peritonsillar Abscess Aspiration of blood Hemorrhage Puncture of the carotid artery Incomplete drainage of the abscess Equipment for Draining a Peritonsillar Abscess Gloves Protective eyewear Mask Drugs for IV analgesia and sedation Local anesthetic (eg, 1% lidocaine with epinephrine), 25 - and 20 - to 22-gauge needles, and 5-mL syringe Topical anesthetic spray (eg, 4% lidocaine) Tongue depressor Headlamp Frazier-tip or Yankauer suction catheter attached to wall suction For aspiration, a 10-mL syringe with 18 - or 20-gauge needle For incision and drainage, a scalpel with a No. 11 or 15 blade For incision and drainage, a tonsil clamp Additional Considerations for Draining a Peritonsillar Abscess Needle aspiration may miss the abscess cavity and result in misdiagnosis as peritonsillar cellulitis.