hi, thank you for your query. peri anal abscess is a very painful condition and since the area is a dependent part,it takes a long time to heal also.putting a seton stitch is required when the abscess has converted into fistula. In your husband s case, the seton loop will slowly cut through tissue inside the loop while scarring behind the loop, essentially pulling out the fistula.hence the continued pain and malaise. i would advise to- -take atleast three sitz baths per day, whereby a small basin is filled with warm water (and possibly, salts) and the affected area is soaked for a period of time. -continue the anti-biotics -if the pain is severe,you can use pain killers. -avoid constipation and straining. -take loads of rest the symptoms will come down in few days. thank you, wishing you good health