Pilonidal disease is a chronic infection of the skin in the buttock crease. Though it sometimes does not produce any symptoms, many patients suffer from severe cysts or abscesses in the area. Colorectal Surgical Specialists of New York offers highly effective pilonidal disease treatment. At our Garden City, NY, office and our other area locations, our doctors will begin with the most conservative option possible. Typically, we will treat the condition by creating tiny incisions that will allow the infection to drain. If the problem does not resolve after this, we may recommend a more extensive surgical procedure to remove pilonidal sinuses.
Pilonidal disease causes an infection to develop anywhere from the base of the spine to the anus. The exact cause of the disease is unknown. Nevertheless, experts speculate that it often occurs because of infected hair follicles. Follicles can become infected because of exercise, profuse sweating, or wearing tight clothing. In other cases, a loose hair can become trapped in the buttock crease, digging into the skin. When this happens, a cyst may form around it.
After your treatment, we will provide tips and guidance to prevent recurring pilonidal disease.
Pilonidal disease can affect anyone, but it is far more likely to impact men than women. It also is more common between puberty and age 40. Obese patients and those with thick, coarse hair also face a higher risk for the condition.
In most cases, patients with pilonidal disease will develop cysts or abscesses in the area around the buttock crease. These sores can vary in severity. In some cases, they may be small, dimple-like abscesses. In other cases, patients can suffer from large, inflamed sores. Sometimes, these areas can produce pus, which may be bloody or foul-smelling. If infection is particularly severe, patients may suffer from fever or fatigue, as well.
Eventually, the initial infection will subside, either by itself or following medical care. Nevertheless, many patients can develop pilonidal sinuses. These small openings below the skin also contain hairs, and they, too, can become infected.
In mild cases, we can often treat pilonidal disease with a conservative lancing procedure. Your doctor will create a small opening to drain the pus from the area. Simultaneously, this will reduce inflammation and discomfort. In many cases, you will also take a course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection.
If you have chronic pilonidal disease, or if you have more than one pilonidal sinus, you may require a more advanced surgery. After administering local anesthesia, your doctor will make a larger incision to remove the sinus tract and the surrounding infected tissue. In some cases, he or she may leave the incision open to heal naturally. In other situations, your surgeon may close the wound using an advanced flap technique.
After your treatment, we will provide tips and guidance to prevent recurring pilonidal disease. For example, hygiene and lifestyle changes can reduce your risk for a flare-up of the condition.
If you are suffering from pilonidal disease, we can provide effective treatment for lasting relief. Contact our office today to learn more and to receive the successful care that you need.
The Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York provide comfortable, discreet, and private care from five locations throughout Long Island and Queens. Every member of our team is a respected leader in their field, and each is certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery. We provide a complete set of services related to your colorectal health, including:
To request a consultation with our physicians, please fill out our online form or call 516-248-2422.
