What is a pilonidal sinus?
The pilonidal sinus is an abnormal tunnel under the skin that usually contains hair and skin debris. It usually occurs at the crease of the buttocks near the tail bone.
What causes pilonidal sinus?
Pilonidal sinus occurs when hair punctures the skin and provides a route for bacteria and debris to enter the area which causes recurrent infection and abscess. It is more common in young men, people with excess skin hair, and those who are more prone to sit for prolonged periods.
What are the symptoms of pilonidal sinus?
The symptoms of pilonidal sinus are:
- Pain
- Reddening of the skin
- Foul smell from draining pus
- Drainage of pus or blood from an opening in the skin
How is pilonidal sinus treated?
Pilonidal sinus is conventionally treated surgically by removing the involved area of skin and covering the defect with an adjacent flap of unaffected skin. At HAMS, pilonidal sinus is treated endoscopically – Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Treatment (EPSiT) or by Sinus Laser Closure (SiLaC).
