HomeAnswersGeneral Surgerypilonidal sinusI have pilonidal sinus. What are the treatment options?

What are the treatment options available for pilonidal sinus?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Divya Banu M

Published At May 8, 2019
Reviewed AtNovember 30, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a pilonidal sinus, that is 20 mm long. I consulted the surgeon and he suggested surgery. Is it mandatory to get the surgery done now itself or can I wait for three to four months?

Answered by Dr. Madhav Tiwari

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A pilonidal sinus is more common among men who:

1. Have more hard body hair.

2. Have long working hours (sitting down).

3. Obese.

Unfortunately, surgery is the best option for you in going forward. However, as the recovery period can be a lengthy one, you may hold off on surgery for a few months provided the discharge from the sinus is not bothering you too much and is not painful. Whilst you decide on when to get it operated, you should continue to maintain local hygiene, keep the area as dry as possible, and remove any hair in the area.

That being said, the longer you leave it, the more problematic it might become due to infection, and worsening of the sinus. If you do not wish to undergo a surgical procedure, there is the option of opting for laser treatment or trying various creams. I should warn you that either of these is less successful than treating it surgically.

Investigations to be done

Sinogram.

Preventive measures

Maintain local hygiene, Shave hair from the region. Keep the area dry.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

May I know various creams for pilonidal sinus?

Answered by Dr. Madhav Tiwari

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

How are you doing? You can use T-Bact ointment (Mupirocin) or Metro-P ointment (Metronidazole). However, surgery is the best way of going forward.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Madhav Tiwari
Dr. Madhav Tiwari

General Surgery

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