We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is Pilonidal Sinus Surgery?

By J.M. Willhite
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 9,908
Share

Pilonidal sinus surgery is a treatment option for recurrent pilonidal sinus infection. Depending on the presentation of the pilonidal sinus, surgery can range from drainage to excision of affected tissue. Invasive pilonidal sinus surgery is usually reserved for recurrent cyst formation, a condition known as pilonidal disease.

Contrary to its common association with the nasal cavity, sinus may be used to describe a cavity or tunnel within the skin. In the case of pilonidal sinus, the term is used to denote a passage or hole initiated and burrowed by a loose or stray hair. Located just above the buttocks, near the base of the tailbone, a pilonidal sinus can easily progress to form a cyst or abscess.

A sinus formation causes the skin to dimple, allowing a pocket, or cyst, to form just beneath the skin. In some cases, the cyst fills with bacteria and other foreign matter, including the inward growing hair, initiating infection and an abscess. As the infection worsens, the sinus adopts a pimply or inflamed, raised appearance and becomes tender to the touch.

An infected pilonidal sinus may be drained with the aid of a local anesthetic. The individual is generally given an oral antibiotic prior to surgery to alleviate infection. Often, the patient is instructed to finish the antibiotic as directed to help prevent recurrent infection. During the procedure, a small incision is introduced over the abscess so the collected pus and other foreign matter may be removed. The wound is left open and dressed appropriately to ensure proper healing.

When recurrent pilonidal cysts become an issue, more invasive pilonidal sinus surgery may be required. Individuals diagnosed with pilonidal disease generally undergo surgery to remove the affected tissue and prevent complication. The size of the cyst usually dictates the depth and length of the incision.

Pilonidal sinus surgery is generally performed with the intent of making the smallest incision necessary. When a cyst is considered relatively small, an incision is made directly over the growth so it may be completely excised. Sutures close the wound.

Depending on the size of the cyst, there are several surgical approaches that may be used to remove the growth. To lessen the risk for infection, the individual’s skin may be used to cover the wound. One such method is known as the Limberg flap. With this approach, a rhomboid-shaped incision is made over the cyst. Two of the sides are cut so a “flap” is made that may be lifted to allow access to the cyst. Once the excision is completed, the flap is lowered and stitches are made to close the wound.

The surgical approach is generally determined during a consultation when the patient may ask questions to help him or her prepare. Pre- and post-operative instructions are given to the patient at this time. Medications that may interfere with blood clotting or complicate surgery may be temporarily discontinued. As with any invasive medical procedure, pilonidal sinus surgery does carry a risk for complications, including infection and unnecessary bleeding.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-pilonidal-sinus-surgery.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.