Pilonidal Sinus: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

 Pilonidal Sinus Infection 

    ● A pilonidal sinus is a skin infection near the top of the your buttocks. A small hole or tunnel in between your buttocks. 

 Causes and Risk Factors:

    ● Pilonidal sinuses are thought to initially result from a hair follicle infection, which can lead to the subsequent formation of a subcutaneous abscess from a persistent folliculitis .

    ● Risk factors include male sex, sedentary occupations and lifestyle, hirsutism, sub-optimal personal hygiene, deep natal cleft, and occupational contact with fragmented hair shafts.

    ● Genetic factors 

 Symptoms:

    ● Pain, 

    ● Swelling, 

    ● Redness, and 

    ● Discharge of pus or blood. 

    ● Pain increased when sitting or walking. 

    ● Individuals may present with a painful abscess or develop a chronic cycle of pain and discharge from openings of interconnected subcutaneous tracts.

 Investigation:

     1. Pus culture and sensitivity 

     2. CBC

     3. ESR

     4. C-Reactive Protein ( CRP)

     5. USG 

     6. MRI 

 Treatment:

      Three types of treatments are available for Pilonidal Sinus:

  1.Conservative Treatments

1. Medication:

   • Antibiotics: Prevents any kind of infection near abscess. 
   • Pain Relievers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen helps to manage pain and inflammation.

2. Hygiene:

   • Cleanliness: Keeping the area clean and dry is crucial. Washing the area daily with mild soap and water.
   • Hair Removal: Regularly removing hair from the area can reduce the risk of recurrence.

3. Warm Compresses:

   • Applying warm compresses to the affected area can help to reduces pain and encourage drainage of any pus that may be present.

  2.Minimally Invasive Treatments

1. Incision and Drainage (I&D):

   • The procedure involves making a small incision to drain the pus and relieve pressure. The wound may be left open to heal from the inside to out.

2. Sitz Baths:

   • Soaking in a warm bath several times a day can help soothe the area and promote drainage of any pus.

  3.Surgical Treatments

      For chronic or recurring PNS, surgical intervention necessary:

1. Excision:

   • This procedure often involves cutting out the sinus tract and may require the area to be left open to heal or to be closed with stitches.

2. Flap Surgery:

   • In cases where the sinus is deep or extensive, flap surgery may be used.

3. Laser Surgery:

   • This method involves using laser energy to remove the sinus and surrounding tissue, which can be less invasive and may result in a quicker recovery.

4. Cleft Lift Procedure:

• Advanced surgical technique designed to reduce recurrence rates.

                             Dressing procedure is shown in given video by experts. 

 Prevention:

      1. Avoid to wear tight clothing. 

      2. Maintain body weight in optimum range. 

      3. Regular exercise and yoga. 

      4. Healthy diet. 

      5. Avoid junk food.

#Note: PLEASE TAKE MEDICINE AFTER CONSULTING AN RECOGNIZED PHYSICIAN OR SURGEON.