Is surgery mandatory for my pilonidal sinus?

Question

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?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

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.

Please do a Sinogram.

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.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 2

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.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.