Pilonidal Sinus - Everything You Should Be Aware Of
Pilonidal is a term used to describe a “nest with hair’. A pilonidal cyst can be found in the vicinity of the tailbone, or on the at the top of the buttocks crease. It could appear as an opening or a small depression. In certain cases there may be an open canal (sinus tract) that connects it with the skin’s surface. A pilonidal cyst usually doesn’t cause any symptoms. However, if it gets infected, it could cause swelling and pain.
The Reasons of Pilonidal Sinus
The reason behind these cysts isn’t known. They could form when hair is pushed to the skin or the hair follicle breaks. A person could develop the cyst in the womb.
These cysts are typically detected in individuals aged between 16 to 26. But anyone may be affected by a pilonidal syringe. They can are common in both genders however they are more common in those who have excessive hair growth in their gluteal folds.
Also Read: Recover From Pilonidal Sinus Surgery
Signs and symptoms
A Pilonidal cyst doesn’t cause symptoms until it is infected. Infection can cause these symptoms:
- The symptoms can range from a tiny dimple, to a massive painful mass
- A few Pits are formed within the skin of the gluteal fold
- Pits can be filled with hair
- Abscess is formed when drainage from pit becomes blocked.
- The redness, pain or swelling around the cyst as well as the area surrounding it
- There could be a discharge which is clear or cloudy, or bloody.
- The smelly drainage of the cyst is foul.
- Fever
Diagnosis
A Pilonidal cyst is identified by the way it appears and also by the location. The best Pilonidal Sinus doctor in Kolkata will inspect it to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will inform you that tests may be required.
Treatment
The majority of pilonidal cysts can be left unaffected, even if they do not cause any issue. However, if a pilonidal cyst is infected it is necessary to treat the problem. This could include symptoms:*
Antibiotic medicines to treat the condition. Be aware that these medications will not remove the cyst medications can only offer temporary relief. They will not stop an infection from happening and recurring.
Warm water soaks aid in the removal of the infection as well as ease itching and pain.
The incision is then cleaned and drained, as necessary. It is then cut and pus and the other infected material will be allowed to drain.
Kshar Sutra Therapy : It is an Ayurvedic Surgical technique and is highly effective and efficient for patients. Kshar Sutra is placed into the entire tract that is infected. It assists in eliminating hair, infections, and tissues that are infected. Kshar Sutra is replaced at a every few months. The number of sittings and duration of treatment are determined by the severity of the inflammation.
Surgery: Excision or removal of the cyst to treat an infections that are severe or persistent, and is not responding to medication or medications, or continues to recur. The surgeon cuts and removes the cyst as well as the tissue surrounding it. There is always a chance of recurrence following surgery. Many patients did not receive treatment even after multiple procedures. This is why Kshar Sutra Therapy is a alternative treatment for patients who are not responding to medications or other methods. However, Laser treatment for Pilonidal Sinus is the best treatment available.
To prevent infection
A pilonidal cyst is likely to be infected. Use the following tips to keep infections at bay:
- Make sure to keep the cyst and its surrounding skin area free of dirt.
- Take hair out of the area of the cyst frequently
- Talk to your Pilonidal Sinus Specialist doctor about the safest products and procedures for getting rid of hair.
- Do not sit in one place for extended lengths. This will help to lessen the weight and stress on your tailbone .
- The use of a cushion to alleviate tension on the tailbone can assist.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes to minimize the irritation to the skin around the cyst.
- If there is a discharge Keep a clean cotton pad on the opening to keep clothes from getting soiled.
About Docor
Dr. Azhar Alam
MBBS (Honours), MRCS A (UK),
DNB General Surgery
FIAGES (Gastro Intestinal Surgery)
FMAS (Minimal Access Surgery),
MNAMS (New Delhi)
Consultant Gastrointestinal, Advanced Laparoscopic and Laser Surgeon
Assistant Professor of Surgery, KPC Medical College and Hospital
