Dr. Daniel Serralta provides advanced pilonidal sinus surgery in Dubai, using keyhole and cleft-lift techniques for low relapse rates and a fast, comfortable recovery.
Pilonidal sinus (PNS) is a condition characterized by a small tunnel or hole in the skin, often filling with fluid or pus, leading to the formation of a cyst or abscess. Typically found in the cleft at the top of the buttocks.
It starts with a cyst- that forms with hair, dirt, and debris. If it is not cured, it becomes an abscess- a pus, or fluid-filled cyst. When the treatment is delayed, the condition develops into a small tunnel called the Pilonidal sinus.
PNS can be painful and discomforting.
Pilonidal sinus (PNS) typically affects the inter-gluteal region between the buttocks (natal cleft) over the sacrum (the base of the spine) and the coccyx (commonly referred to as the tailbone).
Pilonidal sinus forms in the cleft between the buttocks, near the base of the spine.
The fold between the buttocks where hair and debris get trapped in skin pores.
The bony base of the spine lying just beneath the natal cleft and sinus tract.
Trapped hair and debris trigger inflammation, forming a cyst or abscess here.
At first, you may notice a small dimple-like depression on your skin’s surface. However, when infected, it quickly progresses into a cyst or abscess.
Signs of infection include pain while sitting or standing, swelling, reddened and sore skin, pus or blood discharge with a bad odor, and protruding hair from the lesion. In some cases, multiple sinus tracts may form.
Pilonidal cysts are primarily caused by trapped groups of hairs and debris in the pores of the skin in the upper buttock cleft, leading to abscess formation.
The risk factors include being :
Treatment depends on the extent of the condition and whether it’s a recurring issue or a first-time occurrence. For infected pilonidal abscesses, pus drainage and, sometimes, antibiotic treatment are needed. For non-infected cases (or after the infection is controlled with drainage) surgery is highly recommended, as it is the only way to avoid further complications and even the development of new tunnel branches that will make further treatment more challenging.
This involves creating a small hole in the abscess to drain pus. Just for infected cases.
Removal of the sinus with the surrounding skin, allowing natural healing. This option is the “old-school” treatment and should never be recommended, as it can take up to 2-5 months to heal, requiring daily specialized (nurse or surgeon) dressing.
The sinus is removed, and skin edges are stitched together. This option involves a high rate of failure, with reopening of the suture and relapse of the sinus. It’s therefore not recommended.
this is widely recognized as the best option for PNS, providing both a fast recovery and a low rate of disease relapse.
A minimally invasive technique involving the use of an endoscope to remove hair and infected tissue, followed by heat or laser sealing of the sinus. This is a promising but not yet verified technique as there are not enough studies/cases to assure the long-term results.
It is a surgical treatment option for pilonidal sinus. It involves the removal only of the individual pits and tunnels. GIPS is typically suggested for mild cases or as a preventive measure.
Laser treatment for pilonidal sinus is a minimally invasive process that uses laser energy to remove infected tissue and seal the sinus tract. It’s often recommended for patients with recurrent or persistent pilonidal sinus issues, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods. As with the EPSIT procedure, this is a promising but not yet verified technique as there are not enough studies/cases to assure the long term results
Clean the surgical site as per your surgeon’s instructions, avoiding harsh scrubbing.
Change dressings regularly to maintain cleanliness.
Manage pain with prescribed medications to aid comfort and mobility.
Gradually increase activity as advised, avoiding strenuous activities.
Maintain a balanced diet including leafy vegetables, legumes and fiber and stay hydrated for proper healing.
Watch for signs of infection like increased pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or drainage.
Monitor for a persistent fever, which could indicate complications.
Be alert to wound dehiscence (opening up) and report it promptly.
Report any purulent or foul-smelling discharge from the wound.
Consult your surgeon if wound healing seems delayed.
Book a confidential consultation and get a clear, honest plan for your condition.
The cost of pilonidal sinus surgery in Dubai varies depending on the specific procedure and your individual requirements. Dr. Daniel Serralta de Colsa has broad experience in advanced pilonidal surgery and offers competitive pricing for these treatments. During your consultation, a detailed cost estimate is provided based on your unique case.
Most cases involve a painful lump in the tailbone area that moves when pressed. Not all cases have an obvious lump; some present with draining sinuses.
Only a doctor can provide the right diagnosis, as Pilonidal Disease presents differently in individuals. Common symptoms include discomfort around the tailbone, swelling, and the presence of a lump.
Pilonidal Disease often results from “follicular occlusion,” caused by stretched pores in the tailbone area due to friction and pressure when sitting. While some doctors still consider it congenital, it’s essential to consult a knowledgeable physician for the latest information.
Being overweight can contribute to Pilonidal Disease, especially if it deepens the natal cleft (buttock crease), trapping more moisture and debris and increasing pressure.
Pilonidal Disease rarely becomes cancerous. Surgery often includes a tissue test to rule out any malignancy.
Pilonidals typically occur in the buttock cleft area, but similar abscesses may appear in other regions like the umbilicus, breast, pubic area, or armpit, indicating different conditions like Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Infections are marked by severe pain, difficulty in movement, and foul-smelling drainage from a sinus, which may vary in color.
Diagnosis typically relies on symptoms, but high-resolution MRI with contrast or ultrasound may be used in some cases for visualization.
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