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What is a Pilonidal Sinus?

A pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel or tract that forms under the skin, usually at the top of the buttocks (the natal cleft, near the tailbone). "pilonidal" means "nest of hairs" because the tract often contains loose hair, skin debris, and sometimes dirt. Over time, this area can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes a discharge of pus or blood.

Who Gets Pilonidal Sinus and Why?

Most common in young men (especially between ages 16 and 30)

It is more likely if you have coarse or thick body hair

People who sit for long periods (like drivers and office workers)

Those with a deep buttock cleft, obesity, or excessive sweating

Poor hygiene or repeated friction in the area can also increase risk.

PILONIDAL SINUS

Pilonidal sinuses are rare, affecting about 26 in 100,000 people each year.

They affect at least twice as many men as women. The average age for a pilonidal sinus is 21 in men and 19 in women.

They are less common in children and people over the age of 45.

Years of Excellence

Happy Patients

Laser Surgeries

Lives Transformed

What Causes It?

The main cause is hair and debris getting trapped in the skin folds. Movement, pressure, and friction can push hair into the skin, causing irritation and infection. Some people may have a genetic tendency, but most cases are considered "acquired" rather than present from birth.

Recurring episodes of pain or swelling in the area of the tailbone.
Yellowish pus-like or bloody discharge from the tailbone area which may be foul smelling.
Painful lump under the skin in that area.
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
Having a deep cleft between buttocks
History of previous Pilonidal Cyst

What Are the Symptoms?

Pain or tenderness near the tailbone, especially when sitting

Swelling or a lump in the area

Redness and sometimes heat over the area

Discharge of pus or blood (may have a foul smell)

Fever, if the area becomes infected

How to Prevent Recurrence?

Keep the area free of hair (shaving or laser hair removal)
Maintain good hygiene and keep the area dry
Avoid prolonged sitting when possible
Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

Is Pilonidal Sinus Dangerous?

While not usually life-threatening, an untreated pilonidal sinus can lead to repeated infections, abscesses (painful collections of pus), and chronic discomfort. Rarely can long-standing diseases cause more serious problems, so early treatment is best.

How Is It Treated?

✅ If Mild or No Symptoms:

• Keep the area clean and dry

• Remove hair regularly (shaving or laser hair removal)

• Practice good personal hygiene

✅ If Infected (Acute Symptoms):

• Antibiotics for infection

• Painkillers for comfort

• Sometimes, a minor surgery to drain pus (abscess)

✅ If Persistent or Chronic:

• Surgery to remove the sinus tract is often recommended

Options include:

Wide excision and healing by secondary intention: The sinus is cut out, and the wound is left open to heal naturally (needs regular dressing)
Excision and primary closure: The sinus is removed, and the wound is stitched closed

✅ Minimally Invasive and Laser Treatments:

• Newer techniques, video-assisted laser ablation of pilonidal sinus are less painful, have faster recovery, and lower recurrence rates than traditional surgery

• Laser treatment uses focused energy to remove the infected tissue and seal the tract, often as a daycare procedure

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A: Sometimes mild cases settle with hygiene and hair removal, but most need some form of treatment to prevent recurrence or infection.

A: Laser and other minimally invasive methods offer less pain, faster healing, and lower recurrence for many patients, but the best option depends on your specific situation and your surgeon's advice

A: With laser or minimally invasive surgery, most people return to work in a few days and heal completely in 2 to 3 weeks. Traditional surgery may take longer.

A: Recurrence is possible, especially if hair removal and hygiene are not maintained. Laser hair removal can help reduce this risk

A: No, it is not contagious.

A: If you have pain, swelling, discharge, or repeated infections near your tailbone, see a healthcare provider for evaluation and advice.

Yes, pilonidal sinus can recur, even after surgery. However, the chances are much lower if the procedure is done properly and you follow post-operative care strictly.

Laser surgery is minimally invasive, causes less pain, and faster healing. It reduces the chance of recurrence compared to traditional surgery — but it is not a 100% guarantee.
The real success depends on:
• Removing the full tract (no hidden branches left)
• Keeping the area clean and dry
• Avoiding sitting for long periods early on
• Regular hair removal or shaving the area

Yes, delayed healing can happen—especially if:
• The wound gets infected
• You sit too much or do not keep the area clean
• Hidden branches were missed during surgery

Minimal Pain
Least risk of Complications
Least Tissue Trauma
Absolutely blood less
Short Hospital Stay
No Post Operative Dressings

Precautions After Laser Surgery for Pilonidal Sinus

1. Keep the Area Clean and Dry

Gently wash with mild soap and pat dry.
Avoid moisture buildup in the cleft.

2. Avoid Sitting for Long Periods (First 7–10 Days)

Sit only when necessary.
Use a doughnut cushion if sitting is unavoidable.

3. No Straining or Heavy Exercise

Avoid lifting weights, cycling, running, or squatting for 2–3 weeks.

4. Hair Removal is Essential

Shave or use hair removal cream as advised.
Do this weekly to prevent recurrence.

5. Loose Cotton Clothing

Wear breathable underwear and loose pants to reduce friction.

6. Daily Dressing

Follow your doctor's instructions.
Change dressings regularly to prevent infection.

7. Watch for Signs of Infection

Redness, swelling, foul smell, or pus—report immediately.

8. Avoid Smoking

Smoking delays healing. Stop or reduce smoking for faster recovery.

9. Follow-Up Visits

Do not skip check-ups. Early detection of problems can prevent recurrence.

10. Stay Active—But Not Too Soon

Walk around the house slowly after 24–48 hours to promote circulation.

PILONIDAL SINUS TREATMENT USING LASER(SILAT)

Photo-coagulation following inside the cyst results in sublimation of the capsule inside the coccyx cyst. The aseptically inflammation promoted by photo-coagulation with LASER result to a perfect healing of Pilonidal sinus in about a week.

Contact Information

ADDRESS 408-A, Adarsh Nagar, Near Jain Bhawan,
Kapurthala Road, Jalandhar, INDIA (144008)

MOBILE +91 86999 15050

EMAIL info@karanhospital.com

What Our Patients Say

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TREATMENT OF PILONIDAL SINUS WITH LASER