What is pilonidal sinus?

A pilonidal sinus, also known as pilonidal cyst or pilonidal abscess, is a small tunnel or channel that forms in the skin, usually at the top of the buttocks, near the tailbone (coccyx).

This condition typically occurs when hair follicles become irritated and infected, leading to the development of a sinus tract beneath the skin’s surface.

Symptoms of pilonidal sinuses may include:

  • Pain or discomfort in the lower back or buttock area.
  • Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the sinus opening.
  • Pus or blood draining from the sinus tract.
  • Fever or other signs of infection in severe cases.

Causes Of Pilonidal sinus?

  • More common in males
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • People who sit for long hours at a stretch
    eg. Drivers
  • Thick body hair especially those that are coarse and curly
  • Obesity
  • Previous injury in the area
  • Family history of Pilonidal sinus

Treatment

LASER PILONIDOPLASTY ( LPP )

This innovative technique utilizes laser energy to remove the sinus tract and promote healing, offering several advantages over traditional surgical approaches.

EXCISION WITH PRIMARY CLOSURE

In this procedure, the abscess and sinus are surgically removed and the wound is closed with stitches/sutures. The stitch line is preferably off the midline, where the tension is less and chances of healing are better.

LIMBERG FLAP / GLUTEAL FLAP

This procedure is done in patients who have extensive Pilonidal disease or who have disease affecting both sides of the buttock. The surgeon removes an oblong shaped plug containing the abscess, skin and fat, thus creating a cavity. To fill the cavity, a flap of skin and thick fat is mobilised from the buttock beside and below the cavity. The flap is swung into the centre and the edges are sutured.

Dr. Ripudaman Singh Lubana
Dr. Mukesh Saini
lazocure
Dr. Rahul Yadav