PILONIDAL SINUS

Pilonidal Sinus Surgery: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Pilonidal sinus disease (PNS) is a condition that occurs when a small hole or tunnel develops
in the skin just above the buttocks, typically due to hair follicles becoming embedded and
infected. This can cause the formation of a cyst or abscess that may fill with fluid or pus and
be extremely painful. The condition is more common in men and young adults who sit for
long periods and can require surgical intervention in severe cases.

What are the causes of pilonidal sinus disease?

Below is a list of possible causes of pilonidal sinus disease

  • Ingrown hairs - Hair follicles may become trapped and inflamed, leading to PNS.
  • Friction - Prolonged sitting, tight clothing, or frequent biking can cause irritation and break the skin, leading to PNS.
  • Trauma - Injuries to the tailbone or surrounding area may cause the development of PNS.
  • Congenital - Some people may be born with a higher risk of developing PNS due to a variation in the shape of the buttocks.
  • Poor hygiene - A lack of cleanliness in the affected area can accumulate debris and bacteria, increasing the risk of PNS.
  • Obesity - Being overweight or obese may lead to developing PNS due to the pressure and friction on the affected area.

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    How are pilonidal sinuses treated?

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    Pilonidal Sinus Diagnosis
    Here are the steps involved in the diagnosis of pilonidal sinus disease:

    • Physical examination - The doctor will examine the affected area, looking for signs of inflammation, redness, swelling, and a visible opening or sinus tract.
    • Medical history - The doctor will ask questions about symptoms and medical history, such as whether there have been previous occurrences of PNS.
    • Imaging tests - If necessary, the doctor may end up ordering imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI to assess the extent of the sinus tracts and the surrounding tissue.
    • Fluid or pus sample - If the area is infected, the doctor may take a sample of the pus or fluid for analysis to determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment.
    • Differential diagnosis - The doctor may also rule out other conditions that may be showing similar symptoms, such as an infected pilonidal cyst, abscess, or a sexually transmitted infection.

    It’s essential to get medical attention promptly if you suspect you have PNS to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

    Benefits of laser surgery for Pilonidal Sinus

    Laser surgery is a newer technique for treating pilonidal sinus disease (PNS) that offers several potential benefits over traditional surgical methods. Here are some of the benefits of laser surgery for PNS:

    • Minimally invasive, requiring only small incisions or punctures.
    • Less pain, scarring, and a swifter recovery time than traditional surgery.
    • Effective removal of infected tissue while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
    • Less bleeding during and after the surgery, reducing the risk of complications.
    • Cauterizes the wound, reducing the risk of infection.
    • Patients may return to normal activities sooner after laser surgery.
    • Offers a safer and more effective treatment option with a lower risk of complications.

    What are the Potential Risks of Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery?

    After pilonidal sinus laser surgery, you may have the following side effects, like with any other surgical procedure:

    • Infections can occur at any time during pilonidal sinus surgery. In situations of open surgery or when the patient does not allow the surgical site to heal correctly, the risks of infection are increased.
    • Anaesthesia side effects: Several people have reported anaesthesia adverse effects. If the effects of anaesthesia last longer than normal, the patient should see a doctor.

    What happens if Pilonidal Sinuses are not treated on time?

    If pilonidal sinuses are not treated on time, they can worsen and cause a range of complications. Here are some possible consequences of untreated pilonidal sinuses:

    • Pus and discharge: The sinus may continue to produce pus and discharge, which can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. It can also lead to the formation of cysts, which can be challenging to treat.
    • Pain and discomfort: Pilonidal sinuses can cause significant pain and discomfort, making it difficult to sit or lie comfortably. This can interfere with daily activities and reduce the patient's quality of life.
    • Fistula formation: In some cases, untreated pilonidal sinuses can lead to the formation of fistulas, which are abnormal connections between different body parts. Fistulas can be difficult to treat and may require surgery.
    • Abscess formation, where the sinus becomes infected and fills with pus, resulting in foul- smelling discharge from the sinus tract.
    • Chronic pilonidal sinuses can also lead to the formation of multiple sinus tracts, increasing the risk of complications. In rare cases, untreated or recurrent pilonidal sinuses may even increase the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.

    In summary, seeking treatment for pilonidal sinuses as soon as possible is important to avoid these complications. Treatment options vary depending on the intensity of the condition but may include antibiotics, drainage of abscesses, and surgical excision of the sinus.

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