Pilonidal Sinus Treatment

What is Pilonidal Sinus ? What is Pilonidal Sinus ?

Pilonidal sinus is a condition that can cause discomfort and complications if not treated properly. If you're experiencing symptoms of pilonidal sinus, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with our general surgeon .

Understanding Pilonidal SinusUnderstanding Pilonidal Sinus

Understanding pilonidal sinus: causes and risks

A pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel in the skin that may fill with fluid or pus, causing a cyst or abscess. It is often located near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks crease. The exact cause is not known, but it’s thought to be associated with loose hairs penetrating the skin, leading to an immune response.

Risks of untreated pilonidal sinus:

Infection and abscess formation: Can lead to severe pain and the need for surgical drainage.
Chronic pain: Persistent discomfort in the affected area.
Recurrence: Even after treatment, pilonidal sinus can recur, especially if the underlying causes aren’t addressed.
Complex sinus tracts: The condition can lead to the development of new sinus tracts or cysts.

Treatment options at CK Birla Hospital

Our approach to treating pilonidal sinus is patient-centric, offering a range of treatments from conservative management to advanced surgical techniques:

Incision and drainage: A simple procedure performed under local anaesthesia to drain the cyst.
Laser therapy: Minimally invasive and effective in reducing the risk of recurrence.
Surgical removal: For recurrent or complex cases, surgery might be necessary to remove the sinus tract.
Lifestyle and hygiene advice: Guidance on maintaining personal hygiene and lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence.

What is the Average Cost of a Pilonidal Sinus Treatment?

The cost of treating pilonidal sinus varies as per the specific treatment advised by a healthcare provider, such as:

Incision and drainage
Laser therapy
Surgical removal
Lifestyle and hygiene advice

The cost can also vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the hospital’s pricing structure.

To get an explicit estimate for the cost of a pilonidal sinus treatment at the CK Birla Hospital, contact the hospital directly. Additionally, you can consult with our board-certified general surgeon to discuss your specific needs and receive a personalised quote for the procedure.

Preventing Pilonidal Sinus

Prevention is focused on reducing the factors that can lead to pilonidal sinus development:

Maintain cleanliness: Regular washing and drying of the buttock area.
Weight management: Reducing weight can decrease the pressure and friction in the buttock area.
Avoid prolonged sitting: Regularly changing positions and avoiding prolonged pressure on the tailbone area.
Hair removal: Regularly shaving or using other hair removal methods around the buttocks can reduce the risk of hair penetrating the skin and forming a sinus.

Diagnosing Pilonidal Sinus

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination. In some cases, imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI might be necessary to understand the extent of the condition.

Meet Our Proctologists Meet Our Proctologists

Pre-treatment/surgery Instructions for a Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

Before pilonidal sinus treatment or surgery, follow these instructions:

Fasting: Typically, patients should fast for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure, as instructed by your surgeon or healthcare provider.
Medication: Inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or allergies. They may advise you to stop certain medications before surgery.
Hygiene: Shower with an antibacterial soap on the day of surgery and wear clean, loose-fitting clothing.
Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital or clinic, as you may be sedated or unable to drive afterwards.
Follow pre-op guidelines: Adhere to any specific pre-operative instructions given by your surgeon, such as bowel preparation or hair removal.
Stay hydrated: Avoid alcohol and caffeine before surgery, and follow any specific fluid intake recommendations.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised instructions before undergoing pilonidal sinus treatment.

Post-surgery Instructions for a Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

After pilonidal sinus surgery, follow these post-operative instructions:

Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
If your surgeon advises it, change dressings regularly.
As advised, use antibiotics and painkillers as prescribed.
Avoid sitting or putting pressure on the surgical area.
Maintain proper hygiene, gently cleaning the area daily.
Gradually increase physical activity while avoiding strenuous activities.
Follow up with your surgeon for wound checks and suture removal.
Report any signs of infection, increased pain, or unusual discharge promptly.
Maintain a balanced diet to aid healing and stay hydrated.
Follow your surgeon's specific guidance for a full and safe recovery.

Recovery After a Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

Recovery after pilonidal sinus treatment involves several key steps and considerations:

Wound care:

Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
Regularly change wound dressings as advised by your healthcare provider.
Follow their instructions on cleaning the area.

Pain management:

To alleviate pain, take prescription drugs as advised.

Rest and activity:

Rest is essential during the initial healing phase.
Avoid strenuous activities to prevent complications.
Gradually resume normal activities only with your healthcare provider's approval, typically after a few weeks.

Hygiene:

Maintain good personal hygiene, including regular showers and cleaning the affected area.
Preventing infection is crucial.

Follow-up:

Attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and guidance throughout the healing process.

FAQs Around Pilonidal Sinus TreatmentFAQs Around Pilonidal Sinus Treatment

How Much Does Pilonidal Sinus Treatment Cost ?

The average cost of pilonidal sinus surgery in Delhi is approximately Rs. 75,000 depending upon numerous factors, such as the surgeon’s experience, location, length of the treatment, and hospital’s price structure.

Can Pilonidal Sinus Be Treated Without Surgery?

While surgery is often necessary for complete treatment, early cases might be managed with antibiotics and proper hygiene.

Is Ayurvedic Treatment for Pilonidal Sinus Effective?

While some find relief in alternative treatments, it’s essential to consult with medical professionals to understand the best course of action for your specific condition.

Can Pilonidal Sinus Be Cured at Home?

Home remedies should not replace medical treatment. If you suspect a pilonidal sinus, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice.

How to Prevent Pilonidal Sinus?

To help prevent pilonidal sinus, maintain good personal hygiene, avoid prolonged sitting, keep the area dry, and consider hair removal in the affected area. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Is pilonidal sinus surgery covered in insurance?

Coverage for pilonidal sinus surgery in India varies depending on the specific insurance policy. It may be covered if deemed medically necessary and included in the policy’s coverage. However, individuals should review their policy documents or consult with their insurance provider for details on coverage eligibility.