
A pilonidal sinus, also known as a pilonidal cyst, is a chronic skin infection in the crease between the buttocks near the tailbone (coccyx). This causes small tunnels in the skin, which usually contains hair.
The cause of pilonidal sinus is not completely understood but it is thought to be caused by hair getting embedded in the skin, causing irritation, infection and sometimes abscess formation.
Although anyone can get a pilonidal sinus, the following groups of people are at higher risk:
Symptoms can vary and may include:
The diagnosis of a pilonidal sinus can be achieved with careful clinical examination by the doctor. Rarely, a CT scan or MRI scan may be required for evaluation of this condition.
The definitive treatment of a pilonidal sinus requires surgery as it rarely resolves without surgery. The type of surgery performed depends on the clinical condition of the patient, as well as the anatomy and complexity of the sinuses.
During and after surgical wound healing, the skin in the buttock crease must be kept clean and free of hair to decrease the risk of recurrence. This can be done by the following methods:
During and after surgical wound healing, the skin in the buttock crease must be kept clean and free of hair to decrease the risk of recurrence. This can be done by the following methods:
The following measures may help to prevent the formation of pilonidal sinuses and/or keep them from recurring:
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
#08-07, 3 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228510
Tel: 6454 0054
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Fax: 6764 0054
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Email: ask@surgicalassociates.sg
Gleneagles Medical Centre
#05-01, 6 Napier Road, Singapore 258499
Tel: 6471 0054
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Fax: 6271 0054
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