Pilonidal abscess / Sinus Excision
Indication:
A pilonidal sinus is a small opening or tunnel under the surface of the skin. It occurs in the cleft at the top of the buttocks and can extend down to 5 cm above the anus. A pilonidal cyst usually contains hair, dirt, and debris. It can cause severe pain and can often become infected. Fluid or pus may accumulate inside of it, causing the formation of a cyst or abscess.
Procedure:
It is treated by removing the affected skin and involved tissue and closing the resultant defect with stitches. A surgical drain will be placed to encourage wound healing and prevent the accumulation of fluid in the cavity left by the excision. If there is an associated infection or an abscess it may be dangerous to close the wound and it is then first drained by a simple operation and then later completely excised once the infection has settled. It may be necessary to leave the wound open and allow it to heal up over a period of 4 to 10 weeks. The length of time taken for healing depends on the size of the wound. If the wound is left open it may require daily dressings initially. Your surgeon will discuss this further with you.
Possible complications:
Complications are seldom serious, and include the following:
- Delayed healing is the main problem, especially when the wound is not sutured and deliberately left open. It can take a month or two to heal gradually.
- There may be a recurrence in about 10% of cases.
Duration:
N/A