Pilonidal Sinus treatment in Chennai

How is Pilonidal Sinus Diagnosed?

Pilonidal sinus can be diagnosed by an experienced proctologist. During the consultation, the doctor may ask you about your medical condition, medical history etc. The most commonly performed tests for the diagnosis of pilonidal sinus include:

Physical Examination

To diagnose pilonidal sinus, your doctor will first physically examine the affected area. They will look for signs of inflammation, such as redness, swelling, or tenderness. They may also look for signs of infection, such as the presence of pus or drainage. 

Imaging Tests

Your doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to get a better understanding of the severity of the condition or the chances of any other complications. 

Biopsy

If your doctor suspects that you have pilonidal sinus, they may also perform a biopsy. During a biopsy, your doctor will take a small sample of tissue from the affected area and send it to a lab for analysis. This can help confirm the diagnosis and find out other possible conditions.

What Foods Should You Eat If You Have An Pilonidal Sinus?

If you have a pilonidal sinus, it is essential to follow a healthy diet to promote healing and prevent complications. Here are some foods you should include in your diet:

• Foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help prevent constipation and reduce strain on the pilonidal sinus.
• Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and tofu can aid in healing and recovery.
• Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and nuts, can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy greens, can boost the immune system and aid in healing.
• Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir can help maintain a healthy gut and prevent infection.
• Garlic and onions have antimicrobial properties that can help fight infection.
• Turmeric, a spice with anti-inflammatory properties, can be beneficial when added to dishes.
• Ginger, another anti-inflammatory spice, can be consumed in tea form or added to meals.
• Bone broth, made from simmering animal bones and connective tissues, can provide essential amino acids and promote healing.
• Zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds can aid in wound healing.
• Foods high in iron, like spinach and red meat, can also help with wound healing.
• Avoid processed and sugary foods, which can weaken the immune system and exacerbate inflammation.
• Limit alcohol consumption, as it can interfere with the healing process.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out toxins.
• Avoid foods that you are allergic or sensitive to, as they can worsen symptoms and delay healing.

What Foods Should You Avoid If You Have An Pilonidal Sinus?

Here’s a list of foods that you should avoid if you have a pilonidal sinus. 

1. Fried or fat-rich foods: Fried and fatty foods should be avoided as they can cause inflammation and worsen the condition of pilonidal sinus.
2. Processed foods: Processed foods that are high in sodium and preservatives should be avoided as they can lead to inflammation and aggravate the condition.
3. Red meat: Red meat and other high-protein foods should be consumed in moderation as they can increase the risk of developing pilonidal sinus.
4. High-sugar foods: Sugary foods and drinks should be avoided as they can cause inflammation and lead to other health issues.
5. High-fat dairy products: High-fat dairy products should be avoided as they can contribute to inflammation and worsen the condition of pilonidal sinus.
6. Spicy foods: Spicy foods should be avoided as they irritate the digestive system and cause inflammation.
7. Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits and juices should be consumed in moderation as they can irritate the digestive system and worsen the condition of pilonidal sinus.
8. Alcohol and smoking: Alcohol and smoking should be avoided as it can weaken the immune system and worsen the condition of pilonidal sinus.
9. Caffeine: Caffeine should be consumed in moderation as it can increase inflammation and worsen the condition of pilonidal sinus.
10. Fried foods: Fried and processed snacks should be avoided as they can increase inflammation and worsen the condition of pilonidal sinus.
11. Carbonated beverages: Carbonated drinks should be avoided as they can cause inflammation and lead to other health issues.

What is the Surgical Treatment For Pilonidal Sinus?

Surgery is often recommended for pilonidal sinus because it is a condition that tends to recur. The main goal of surgery is to remove the affected tissue and prevent the formation of new pilonidal sinuses.

Several surgical techniques can be used to treat pilonidal sinus, including;

Lancing

During lancing, your doctor will make a small incision in the affected area to drain the abscess and relieve pain and discomfort. This can be done in a doctor’s clinic or outpatient setting and is typically followed by wound care and antibiotics. Lancing is often effective in treating pilonidal sinus and may be recommended when other treatments have failed.

Open surgery for pilonidal sinus

There are two common types of open surgery- incision-drainage and pilonidal cystectomy.

• Incision and drainage- Incision and drainage treatment is a common approach for managing pilonidal sinus. The procedure involves making a small cut in the affected area to drain the pus-filled abscess. This helps to relieve pain and prevent the infection from spreading. After drainage, the wound is packed with gauze or left open to heal from the inside out. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent further infection.
• Open pilonidal cystectomy- Open pilonidal cystectomy is a surgical treatment for pilonidal sinus. The traditional procedure for Pilonidal cystectomy involves making an incision over the cyst, excising the cyst and surrounding tissue, and draining any abscesses.

Based on the size of the cyst removed, the doctor may or may not pack the area with surgical gauze. In cases where the infection is severe, the doctor places a tube to drain the fluid from the cyst. The tube is only removed when the entire fluid has been collected from the cyst to reduce the chances of recurrence.

Laser pilonidal sinus treatment

Laser pilonidal sinus treatment is a minimally invasive technique that has been proven effective in treating pilonidal sinus. The procedure involves the use of laser energy to destroy the sinus tracts with a few incisions.

This results in faster healing time and reduced risk of complications. Patients can expect to return to normal activities within a few days. Laser treatment is a viable option for those seeking a less invasive approach to pilonidal sinus treatment.

After surgery, patients typically need to keep the area clean and dry to prevent pilonidal sinus infection and promote healing. Pain medication may also be prescribed to manage discomfort. With proper care, most patients can expect to make a full recovery within a few weeks.

What are the Benefits of Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery?

Pilonidal sinus laser surgery offers various benefits, including;

1. Minimally invasive: Laser pilonidal sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that involves less pain and bleeding.
2. Outpatient procedure: The procedure is done on an outpatient basis, which means no overnight hospital stay is required.
3. Fast recovery: Laser surgery has a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
4. Lesser risks of infection: The risk of pilonidal sinus infection is lower with laser surgery due to lesser incisions made during the procedure.
5. Lesser chances of recurrence: Laser surgery reduces the chances of recurrence compared to traditional surgery.
6. No or less scarring: The procedure involves less scarring due to the smaller incisions made during surgery.
7. High success rate: Laser surgery has a higher success rate for treating pilonidal sinus disease.
8. Precise: Laser surgery is a more precise method of treating pilonidal sinus disease.
9. Cost-effective: Laser surgery is a more cost-effective option as it requires fewer hospital resources and is less likely to require additional procedures.

How to Prepare Before Pilonidal Sinus Surgery?

Preparing for Pilonidal Sinus Surgery is an important step toward a successful surgery. There are a few things a patient can do to prepare for the pilonidal sinus surgery. Some standard guidelines to prepare are as follows: 

1. Get informed about the procedure: Consult with your surgeon and ask any questions you have about the surgery. 
2. Do fasting for 8 hours before the surgery: Do not eat anything at midnight before the surgery to avoid complications during the procedure.
3. Arrange someone to drop you home: After the surgery, you will be under the influence of anesthesia, so arrange for someone beforehand to drive you back home after the surgery. 
4. Arrange recovery stuff: Before undergoing the procedure, prepare your home and make arrangements for any recovery period. Ensure that you have any necessary medical supplies, such as wound dressings, before the surgery.
5. Quit smoking and alcohol: Quit smoking and avoid alcohol at least 2-3 weeks before the surgery to reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery.

By following these suggestions, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for your pilonidal sinus surgery and set yourself up for a smooth and successful recovery.

How to Recover After Pilonidal Sinus Surgery?

Self-care at home is essential after undergoing pilonidal sinus laser surgery to make the procedure successful. Here are some recovery tips after pilonidal sinus surgery. 

1. Follow your doctor’s instructions: Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your wound and manage pain. It is essential to follow these instructions closely to avoid complications.
2. Keep the wound clean and dry: You will need to clean the wound regularly to prevent pilonidal sinus infection. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to do this and what products to use.
3. Change dressings regularly: You must change your wound dressings regularly to keep the area clean and dry.
4. Avoid physical activity: You should avoid physical activity for a few weeks after surgery to allow your body to heal.
5. Take pain medication as prescribed: Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort you may experience. It is essential to take this medication as prescribed.
6. Watch for signs of infection: Keep an eye on signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from the wound. Contact your doctor immediately, if you experience any of these symptoms.
7. Eat a balanced diet: Eating a healthy diet will help your body heal faster and promote overall wellness.
8. Get plenty of rest: Your body needs rest to heal, so make sure to get plenty of rest and avoid overexertion.
9. Attend follow-up appointments: Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that you are healing correctly. Attend these appointments as scheduled.
10. Be patient: Recovery after pilonidal sinus surgery takes time, so be patient and allow your body to heal at its own pace.

What Lifestyle Changes Need to Make After Pilonidal Sinus Surgery?

After undergoing pilonidal sinus surgery, it is important to make some lifestyle changes to make the treatment successful. Here are some common lifestyle changes you should follow after pilonidal sinus surgery;

1. Keep the surgical area clean and dry: After surgery, it is important to keep the surgical area clean and dry to avoid infection. Take regular showers and gently clean the area with soap and water. Avoid using any harsh chemical-based soaps or scrubs in the area.
2. Follow your doctor’s instructions: Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the surgical area, including how to change dressings and how often to clean the area. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid complications.
3. Avoid sitting for long periods: Sitting for extended periods can put pressure on the surgical area and slow down the healing process. If possible, avoid sitting for long periods and take short breaks to stand up and move around.
4. Maintain a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help speed up the healing process after surgery. Make sure to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
5. Avoid strenuous activities: Strenuous activities can put pressure on the surgical area and slow down the healing process. Avoid activities such as heavy lifting, running, or jumping until your doctor gives you the okay to resume them.
6. Quit smoking: Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, it is important to quit before and after surgery.

By following these lifestyle changes, you can ensure a speedy recovery after pilonidal sinus treatment through surgery. Always remember to follow your doctor’s instructions and to contact them if you experience any complications or concerns.

What are the Risks and Complications Associated with the Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery?

While pilonidal sinus laser surgery is generally safe, there are some risks and complications associated with the procedure. The most common risks and complications associated with pilonidal sinus surgery are:

1. Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection. Infections can occur at the surgery site and can be serious if left untreated.
2. Bleeding: Pilonidal sinus surgery can cause bleeding at the surgical site. In some cases, this bleeding can be severe and require additional treatment.
3. Pain: Pain is a common complication of pilonidal sinus surgery. The pain can be mild or severe and may last for several weeks after the surgery.
4. Scarring: Pilonidal sinus surgery can leave scars at the site of the surgery. These scars can be unsightly and may cause discomfort. 
5. Numbness: Numbness is another common complication of pilonidal sinus surgery. This numbness may be temporary or permanent and can affect the surrounding skin and tissue.
6. Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the anesthesia or other medications used during the surgery. This can cause serious complications and requires immediate medical attention.
7. Blood clots: Pilonidal sinus surgery can increase the risk of blood clots in the legs or lungs. This can be a serious complication and requires immediate medical attention.
8. Anesthesia complications: Anesthesia is used during pilonidal sinus surgery to numb the area and prevent pain. However, anesthesia can cause complications, including allergic reactions and respiratory problems.

Overall, pilonidal sinus surgery is generally safe, but there are some risks and complications associated with the procedure. Patients should be aware of these risks before undergoing surgery and should discuss any concerns with their doctor.

What is the Cost of Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery?

The cost of pilonidal sinus laser surgery ranges between INR 45000 to INR 80500 and open surgery for pilonidal sinus surgery cost between INR 35,000 to INR 80,000. The final cost of pilonidal sinus surgery may be different for individuals depending on various factors such as hospitalization charges, surgeon fee, cost of diagnostic tests, the severity of the condition, type of procedure used, cost of anesthesia, anesthesiologist fee, follow-up charges etc.