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Understanding Excision and Primary Closure of Pilonidal Sinus

Excision and primary closure of the pilonidal sinus is a surgical procedure to treat a pilonidal sinus by removing it and then closing the wound. Most of these sinuses are solitary and in the middle, but sometimes, there can be more than one or off to the side. Even if there’s just one, the tracks under the skin can be more than one and go a long way in different directions.


The pilonidal sinus usually occurs near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks. When a sinus becomes infected, it can cause pain, swelling, and pus discharge. In pilonidal excision surgery, the sinus tract and any abscess are removed, and the wound is closed with sutures to promote faster healing.

Excision of Pilonidal Sinus Treats:

Check IconChronic pilonidal sinus infections
Check IconRecurrent pilonidal abscesses

Check IconPain and discomfort from pilonidal sinus

Check IconNon-healing sinus tracts

Check IconPrevention of future infections
 
 

Understanding Excision and Primary Closure of Pilonidal Sinus

Excision and primary closure of the pilonidal sinus is a surgical procedure to treat a pilonidal sinus by removing it and then closing the wound. Most of these sinuses are solitary and in the middle, but sometimes, there can be more than one or off to the side. Even if there’s just one, the tracks under the skin can be more than one and go a long way in different directions.

The pilonidal sinus usually occurs near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks. When a sinus becomes infected, it can cause pain, swelling, and pus discharge. In pilonidal excision surgery, the sinus tract and any abscess are removed, and the wound is closed with sutures to promote faster healing.

Excision of Pilonidal Sinus Treats:

Check IconChronic pilonidal sinus infections
Check IconRecurrent pilonidal abscesses

Check Icon Pain and discomfort from pilonidal sinus

Check Icon Non-healing sinus tracts

Check IconPrevention of future infections
 
 

How Does the Excision and Primary Closure of Pilonidal Sinus Work?

Pilonidal sinuses are more common in young adults, especially men because they tend to have more hair in the buttock area. Friction, pressure on the skin, prolonged sitting, being overweight, or having a previous skin injury can lead to a pilonidal sinus.

Pilonidal abscess excision surgery is recommended for large or recurrently infected pilonidal sinuses. This procedure involves removing the pilonidal sinus and cutting out an oval-shaped section of skin on both sides of it. The two sides are then sutured (stitched) together. The surgery typically lasts about 45 minutes and can be done with a local or general anaesthetic. It is usually performed in the clinic: most patients can go home the same day. Someone should stay with the patient for at least 24 hours after the operation, and the stitches will be removed around 10 days later.

This surgery offers a quicker recovery time than other surgeries. However, there is a higher risk of infection, which may require the wound to be reopened and dressings to be changed regularly.

Treatment At a Glance

Purpose

Purpose

Pilonidal Sinus
Procedure Duration

Procedure Duration

45 Minutes
Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia

Local and General

Purpose

Pilonidal Sinus

Pain

Moderate

Procedure Duration

45 Minutes

Recovery Time

6-8 Weeks

Drive

After 2 Weeks

Anaesthesia

Local and General

Recovery Time

Recovery Time

6-8 Weeks
Pain

Pain

Moderate
Drive

Drive

After 2 Weeks

Benefits of Excision and Primary Closure of Pilonidal Sinus

Low Recurrence Rate

Removing the entire sinus tract and closing the wound significantly reduce the recurrence likelihood.

Improved Quality of Life

It alleviates pain and prevents future infections, leading to a more comfortable and active lifestyle.

Long-Term Solution

Effective removal of the sinus tract provides a permanent solution to chronic pilonidal sinus issues.

Short Hospitalisation

Patients can typically return home the same day as the surgery, minimising hospital stays.

Quick Healing

Primary closure of the wound promotes faster recovery, minimal scarring, and reduced downtime.

Rapid Relief from Symptoms

Many patients experience immediate relief from the discomfort caused by an infected pilonidal sinus.

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Excision and Primary Closure of Pilonidal Sinus Cost

Consultations start at £200. Please request a callback by filling out the contact form. We look forward to assisting you!

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Excision and Primary Closure of Pilonidal Sinus

01. How long does it take for a pilonidal excision to heal?

After the operation, you will wear bandages for 3 days, and then your doctor can give you more bandages. The open wound will heal in 6 to 8 weeks.

02. Can I walk after pilonidal sinus excision surgery?

You can walk on your own the same day after the laser treatment. Doctors recommend resting in bed for 2 days after the surgery.

03. Is pilonidal sinus harmful?

Pilonidal sinuses are not harmful, but recurring infections can be unpleasant and demand many medicines. If not treated, repeatedly infected pilonidal sinuses could very rarely develop into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.

04. Is pilonidal sinus curable without surgery?

Pilonidal sinus can be treated without surgery. Tight clothing and activities that cause rubbing in the area can irritate the skin and cause ingrown hairs.

05. Can a pilonidal sinus come back after surgery?

Surgery is the main treatment, but up to 40% of people have the problem come back. There isn’t an agreed best way of doing surgery to stop it from returning, and there are still disagreements.

06. How do you sleep after PNS excision surgery?

You can sleep on your stomach or your side. Both positions can help reduce the pressure on your back and buttocks. When you sleep on your side, be careful not to stretch your lower back too much.

07. Is pilonidal sinus excision surgery painful?

It’s normal to feel some soreness and pain after pilonidal sinus surgery. The pain may be intense for the first few days, but it should improve as time passes. Pain relief medicines can help with the discomfort, and you’ll typically be given some to take home when you leave the hospital.

08. What's the best way to speed up recovery after pilonidal sinus surgery?

Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can help with your recovery after pilonidal sinus surgery. Your doctor may suggest some light exercises to help with your healing process.

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