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Pilonidal Sinus Treatment

Pilonidal Sinus

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What is Pilonidal Sinus?

A pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel or hole in the skin, usually located at the top of the buttocks (near the tailbone), which may become infected and filled with pus or hair. It often leads to swelling, pain, and sometimes a foul-smelling discharge. It can be confused with other skin lesions, which is why early evaluation by a proctology expert is important.Want to visualize it? Search online for pilonidal sinus pictures to better understand how it presents—but always rely on a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Pilonidal Sinus Causes

Wondering what leads to this condition? Common pilonidal sinus causes include:
  • Ingrown hairs or hair penetrating the skin
  • Prolonged sitting (especially drivers or office workers)
  • Excessive body hair or coarse hair
  • Poor hygiene or sweating
  • Friction from tight clothing
  • Obesity
  • Family history
It’s most common in young adults, especially men, but can affect anyone with risk factors.

Symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus Abscess

The most common initial complication is a pilonidal sinus abscess—a painful collection of pus that causes:
  • Swelling, redness, and tenderness near the tailbone
  • Fluid or pus drainage (often with a foul smell)
  • Pain when sitting or walking
  • Fever in more severe cases
If you experience these symptoms, seek urgent pilonidal sinus treatment to avoid chronic infections or sinus tracts.

Pilonidal Sinus Sites

While the most typical location is the natal cleft (top of the buttocks), other rare pilonidal sinus sites include:
  • Belly button
  • Armpits
  • Genital area (rare)
  • Between fingers (in barbers or animal groomers)
Diagnosis should be confirmed by a proctologist using physical exam and sometimes ultrasound or MRI.

Pilonidal Sinus Treatment Options

At Arwa & Ali Medical Center, we offer a full range of pilonidal sinus treatment options:

Conservative Care (for early-stage cases):

  • Antibiotics (for active infection)
  • Hair removal and hygiene
  • Warm compresses or sitz baths

Incision & Drainage (for abscesses):

  • A quick in-clinic procedure to relieve pain and drain the pus.

Pilonidal Sinus Surgery:

  • EPSiT (Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Treatment): Minimally invasive, no stitches, almost no visible scar.
  • Excision with open healing: Lower risk of recurrence, longer healing time.
  • Flap closure techniques (Bascom or Limberg flap): For complex or wide sinuses.

All surgical procedures are outpatient-friendly and designed to reduce pilonidal sinus recurrence.

Pilonidal Sinus Recurrence – Can It Come Back?

Yes, recurrence is possible without proper care. To reduce pilonidal sinus recurrence, we recommend:

  • Post-op wound care
  • Laser hair removal in the area
  • Maintaining hygiene and avoiding long sitting periods
  • Weight loss if relevant

If you’re experiencing rectal bleeding, anal pain, discomfort during bowel movements, or other persistent symptoms — don’t wait. Contact Arwa & Ali Medical Center, your trusted destination for colorectal surgery and proctology.