Pilonidal sinus Surgery?
A pilonidal sinus is a small hole or tunnel in the skin at the top of the buttocks, where they divide (the cleft). It does not always cause symptoms and only needs to be treated if it becomes infected.
A pilonidal sinus that's not infected
Treatment is not needed if there are no signs of infection. A "watch and wait" approach will be recommended.
It's very important to keep the area between your buttocks clean by showering or bathing regularly.
Treatments for an infected pilonidal sinus
Treatment for an infected pilonidal sinus will depend on:
A pilonidal sinus abscess will need treatment with antibiotics. The pus inside will also probably need to be drained.
There are a number of treatment options for a pilonidal sinus that keeps coming back and that's painful, bleeding or leaking discharge. Your doctor will discuss these with you.
In most cases you'll be offered painkillers, such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatories to help reduce pain and swelling.
Surgery for a large or repeatedly infected sinus. The sinus is cut out and some surrounding skin removed. The wound is left open to heal naturally.
Surgery for a large or repeatedly infected sinus. The sinus is removed and an oval-shaped flap of skin cut out on either side of it. The 2 sides are stitched together.