Procedures
Pilonidal Disease
Specialist management of pilonidal sinus and pilonidal cyst.
What is Pilonidal Disease?
Pilonidal disease affects the skin at the top of the buttock crease. It is thought to develop when hair and debris become trapped beneath the skin, leading to inflammation and the formation of small tunnels (pilonidal sinuses) or cysts.
These areas can become painful, swollen and infected, sometimes resulting in an abscess. Common symptoms of pilonidal disease may include:
- Pain, throbbing or swelling near the tailbone, particularly when sitting.
- Redness or tenderness around the tailbone.
- Discharge of fluid, pus or blood.
- A recurrent lump that may become infected.
Treatment and Surgery
Management of Pilonidal Disease
How is the condition treated?
Treatment for pilonidal disease is guided by the severity and recurrence of symptoms, as well as the impact on quality of life.
Minor drainage procedures may be performed to relieve pressure, swelling and pain for an infected abscess.
For chronic or recurrent disease, a Karydakis flap may be recommended. This technique moves the incision away from the midline of the buttock crease, helping to improve healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.
What does the recovery look like?
The specific aftercare and recovery advice following surgery varies between the individual and the procedure performed.
Careful wound management and good hygiene during the healing process to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Detailed aftercare instructions such as wound management guidance and activity restrictions will be provided to you prior to undergoing your procedure.