Excision of Pilonidal Sinus

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of a pilonidal sinus may include:

• Pain and Swelling: Tenderness and swelling in the area above the buttocks.
• Redness and Warmth: The skin around the sinus may become red and warm to the touch.
• Drainage: Pus or blood may drain from the cyst, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor.
• Fever: In cases of infection, a fever may develop.

Diagnosis of Pilonidal Sinus

Diagnosing a pilonidal sinus typically involves:

• Medical History and Physical Exam: To assess symptoms and identify the presence of a sinus or abscess.
• Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies such as an ultrasound or MRI may be used to determine the extent of the sinus.

Treatment Options
Treatment for a pilonidal sinus depends on the severity of the condition. Options include:

• Incision and Drainage: For acute abscesses, a small incision is made to drain the pus and relieve symptoms.
• Excision: Surgical removal of the entire sinus tract is often necessary to prevent recurrence. This can be performed using different techniques, including:
  • Open Excision: The sinus is removed, and the wound is left open to heal from the inside out.
  • Closed Excision: The sinus is removed, and the wound is closed with sutures.
  • Flap Surgery: In complex or recurrent cases, a flap of skin may be used to cover the wound and promote healing.

The Excision Procedure
Excision of a pilonidal sinus is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia. The steps involved include:

• Preparation: Patients receive pre-operative instructions, including fasting guidelines and medication adjustments.
• Surgical Technique: The surgeon makes an incision to remove the sinus tract and any surrounding infected tissue. Depending on the chosen technique, the wound may be left open or closed with sutures.
• Duration: The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
• Completion: Once the excision is complete, the area is cleaned, and appropriate dressings are applied. The patient is monitored in the recovery area before being discharged.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Recovery following excision of a pilonidal sinus is generally straightforward, with most patients able to resume normal activities within a few days to weeks. Our team at Neo TrueNorth provides detailed post-operative care instructions, including:

• Pain Management: Recommendations for managing any discomfort with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications.
• Wound Care: Instructions on keeping the wound clean and dry, changing dressings, and monitoring for signs of infection.
• Activity Restrictions: Guidance on avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and prolonged sitting for a specified period.
• Follow-Up Care: Scheduling follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the wound is recovering properly.

Why Choose Neo TrueNorth for Excision of Pilonidal Sinus?

• Experienced Surgeons: Our board-certified surgeons specialize in performing excisions of pilonidal sinus with precision and care, ensuring patient safety and effective results.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Neo TrueNorth is equipped with modern surgical facilities and the latest technology to provide safe and successful excision procedures in a comfortable environment.
• Personalized Care: We provide individualized care and attention throughout the entire process, from consultation to post-operative follow-up, ensuring each patient’s unique needs are met.
• Comprehensive Support: Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive support, including pre-operative counseling, post-operative care, and follow-up consultations, to ensure a positive surgical experience.

Trust Neo TrueNorth for expert care in the excision of pilonidal sinus. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.