A pilonidal cyst is a type of abnormal sac-like growth in the skin containing hair and skin debris. This unusual pocket of skin generally arises near the tailbone between the buttocks. There is a high tendency for the cyst to get easily infectious. Pilonidal cysts are the result of the tiny skin indents that become infectious. Normally, the doctor drains out the pus and abscess to treat the infection and relieve the pressure causing extreme pain. Apart from drainage, there are various methods to remove this small lump on the skin. Those effective surgical procedures can speed up the healing process of pilonidal cyst recovery. This infection is more common among men in their 20s and 30s than women. Some initial pilonidal cyst treatment include warm compresses, sitz baths and pilonidal cyst antibiotic treatment. In case the infection gets severe, there might be a need for surgery.
Signs of Pilonidal Cyst
- Extreme pain, reddened skin and swelling around the anal area
- Tenderness in the crease near the buttocks
- Drainage of blood or pus
- Bad smell coming from the pus
- Fever
- Nausea
- Extreme fatigue
Common Causes of Pilonidal Cyst
Pilonidal cysts occur in the buttocks area when hair gets trapped in the small holes of the skin in the crease of the buttocks, which results in the formation of an abscess.
Surgical Options for Pilonidal Cysts
Antibiotic treatment can help in treating inflammation. But, when it comes to treating pilonidal cysts, Pilonidal antibiotic treatment cannot heal the cyst all alone. It needs some sort of surgical procedure to treat cysts. The doctor might recommend eradicating pilonidal cysts from the skin in order to avoid further growth of infectious material. Here are the standard surgical procedures used by doctors to eliminate pilonidal cysts.
Lancing
Lancing is a type of surgical procedure used to treat the cyst. This minor procedure can release pus and extreme pressure from the affected area of the pilonidal cyst. The surgical treatment begins with a small cut in the abscess to release pus and debris out of the pilonidal cyst. As soon as the pus drains out completely, the doctor again packs the cyst with the help of sterile gauze.
Incision and drainage
Incision and drainage is a minor surgery of pilonidal cyst treatment. It removes the cyst from where there is no wound closure. Doctors use this method to release pressure and pus from the skin and leave it to heal all alone. Firstly, the doctor injects local anaesthesia to numb the cyst area. Then, a small cut is made in the pilonidal cyst to drain out the pus. This procedure helps to relieve the patient from inflammation and pain. No antibiotics are generally needed for this minimally invasive surgical procedure unless the surrounding area becomes infectious. The entire process of recovery post-surgery takes around two months.
Marsupialisation
Marsupialisation is an old surgical procedure used by doctors to make an incision inside the cyst. Followed by this, the doctor stitches the edges of the incision encircling the cyst. This is to create a continuous surface to leave the area open. The method starts from the exterior to the interior portion of the cyst to allow free drainage of pus. The patient may take more than a month to recover.
Cleft lift
Cleft lifting or Cleft closure is comparatively a less complicated surgical method that takes place when the cyst doesn’t heal. In this pilonidal cyst removal surgery, the doctor removes a larger tissue than what appears on the skin surface and closes it.
Laser Treatments
Laser treatment is one of the most effective treatments to relieve pilonidal cysts without a scar or incision. This is a minimally invasive treatment that patients mostly prefer because there is no need to stay away from their routine activities for a long time. Doctors perform this treatment as a daycare method. Besides, the method doesn’t have any scope for blood loss. This is perhaps the safest pilonidal treatment for the patients. All it takes is 3-5 days after the procedure to lead a better life.
Take Away
Pilonidal cysts are painful and irritating sac-like structures on the body that can affect social activity and interpersonal relationships. However, it is possible to remove it with the help of medical treatment effectively. If you notice any discomfort, first go to the doctor and let him see the cysts. After examination, if you need to undergo a pilonidal cyst removal surgery, the healthcare professional will discuss different options for the pilonidal cyst treatment. The doctor will recommend the option that is most suitable for your case. The most uncomplicated procedure is an incision and drainage treatment the doctor can perform in his office. However, if the risk of cyst recurrence is higher, then a surgical pilonidal cyst removal will be necessary. Nonetheless, it is ideal to seek medical care in the early stage. If you are currently dealing with the pain of a pilonidal cyst, consult with Dr. Kamrava and get a seamless experience. He and his entire team provide relief to your unbearable pain in the most compassionate medical manner.