Pilonidal Disease Treatment

JARROD P. KAUFMAN, MD, FACS

General and Vascular Surgery located in Brick, NJ

Premier Surgical in New Jersey is committed to providing lasting solutions for pilonidal disease. This condition causes cysts near the tailbone, leading to discomfort and disruption of daily activities. Here, we explore pilonidal disease and highlight the benefits of surgical treatment offered by our experienced surgeons.

Pilonidal Disease Treatment: Effective Relief

Understanding Pilonidal Disease

Pilonidal disease happens when hair or debris gets stuck in a small pit near the tailbone. This can cause a cyst to form, which can become inflamed, infected, and very painful. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain, especially when sitting or engaging in physical activity
  • Redness, swelling, or drainage from the affected area
  • Recurring abscesses
  • Sacral dimple or pit near the tailbone

Benefits of Surgical Treatment for Pilonidal Disease

Surgery is usually the best way to get long-lasting results, even though medication and wound care can help temporarily. Premier Surgical offers several advantages when it comes to pilonidal disease treatment:

  • Long-Term Relief: Our surgeons utilize advanced techniques to remove the cyst and the underlying pilonidal sinus tract, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence.
  • Minimally Invasive Techniques: We prioritize minimally invasive surgical procedures, resulting in smaller incisions, less scarring, and faster recovery times.
  • Reduced Pain and Improved Quality of Life: By removing the cyst and addressing the root cause of the problem, surgery can significantly alleviate pain and improve your ability to participate in daily activities without discomfort.

Premier Surgical: Your Partner in Pilonidal Disease Management

Our team of board-certified surgeons in New Jersey understands the challenges associated with pilonidal disease. We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and ensuring a positive patient experience.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Don’t let pilonidal disease limit your life. Contact Premier Surgical today to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon and discuss your treatment options for lasting relief.

Pilonidal Disease Q&A

You may click on each heading below to learn more.

Treatment depends on the severity of your condition. For mild cases without an abscess, options include:

  • Hair removal: Frequent shaving or laser hair removal in the affected area can help prevent recurrence.
  • Phenol injections: A chemical solution applied to destroy hair follicles and promote healing.

For abscesses or recurrent pilonidal cysts, surgery is usually recommended. Surgical options include:

  • Incision and drainage: Draining the pus from the abscess under local anesthesia.
  • Limb flap surgery: Removing the cyst and surrounding tissue, then covering the wound with nearby healthy skin.
  • Sacral cleft lift: Removing the cyst and pilonidal sinus tract, then pulling the buttocks together to close the wound.
  • wide local excision and closure
  • laser excision and debridement

Recovery time varies depending on the surgical procedure. You might experience some pain and discomfort initially. Generally, you’ll be advised to:

  • Keep the wound clean and dry.
  • Take prescribed pain medication.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for a recommended period of time.
  • Avoidance of pressure on the surgical area.
  • Attend follow-up appointments for wound checks and dressing changes.

There’s always a chance of recurrence, especially without addressing the underlying cause (ingrown hairs). However, following your doctor’s post-operative instructions and maintaining good hygiene can significantly reduce the risk.

As with any surgery, there are potential risks like:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Recurrence
  • Wound healing problems

Discuss these risks and your individual situation with your doctor beforehand.

Here are some tips to help prevent pilonidal cysts:

  • Practice good hygiene, keeping the anal area clean and dry.
  • Shave or remove hair in the affected area regularly.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing that reduces friction.
  • Maintain a healthy weight to minimize pressure on the tailbone area.

See a doctor if you experience:

  • A painful lump near your tailbone
  • Drainage of pus or blood from the area
  • Redness, swelling, or tenderness around the tailbone
  • Difficulty sitting or walking due to pain

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure a smoother recovery.

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