A pilonidal sinus is a tiny tunnel or tract beneath the skin that may occur near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks. This sinus may contain hair, debris, and skin, and it can become infected and accompanied by pain, swelling, or pus discharge. A pilonidal sinus may seem minor, though it can greatly hamper the quality of life if left untreated. Many patients might often wonder what the best treatment option is for this problem. In this article, we will discuss in detail about pilonidal sinus and the best pilonidal sinus treatment options.
What is Pilonidal Sinus?
A pilonidal sinus usually develops when loose hair enters the skin; the body reacts to this as a foreign object and develops a small cyst or sinus. Males, young adults, people who are couch potatoes, and those with excess body hair are more likely to develop this. Poor hygiene and prolonged sitting may aggravate this issue.
Symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus
Typical signs of pilonidal sinus are:
- Pain and swelling in the lower back area
- Redness or tenderness at the site
- Drainage of pus or blood with a foul odor
- Multiple infections with abscesses
If the infection is not successfully treated, it could keep occurring, leading to chronic sinus tracts, where the possibilities of a successful treatment could be lessened. To avoid this, early medical assessment is necessary.
Options for Treatment of Pilonidal Sinus
- Conservative management
For mild cases with no infection, the medical advice is simply practicing good hygiene, shaving or laser hair removal in the affected area, and ensuring the region is routinely cleaned.
- Incision and drainage
The initial pilonidal sinus treatment with an abscess is generally incision and drainage. This involves making a small cut by the doctor to drain infection (pus) and relieve pain, but does not treat the sinus, and relapse occurs.
- Surgical excision
Traditional surgical excision of the sinus tract is frequently done for many cases in which the pilonidal sinus is a chronic or recurrent issue. However, surgical excision commonly requires a lengthy healing process and can lead to recurrence if not managed properly.
- Minimally invasive procedures (the new standard)
Minimally invasive non-surgical methods are the most modern and preferred methods of treatment for pilonidal sinus. Minimally invasive approaches such as Laser Pilonidal Sinus Treatment (LAPS) and Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Treatment (EPSiT) are very effective treatments for pilonidal sinus. In these procedures, the sinus is sterilized, and the sinus tract is cleared with laser or endoscopic assistance without using large incisions.
Advantages of minimally invasive treatment:
- Incisions are smaller, and the pain is less
- Faster recovery and return to everyday life
- Little to no scarring
- Lowering the risk of recurrence
If you are looking for the best doctor for pilonidal sinus in Mohali, or the best pilonidal sinus laser treatment in Mohali, Sohana Hospital might just be the right option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the World’s Most Advanced Technology and North India’s most trusted and experienced surgeons who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for all the sinus related problems of the patients in the region. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier and more comfortable life!