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Pilonidal Sinus

A chronic inflammatory condition formed by hair becoming embedded in the skin of the coccyx (tailbone) area.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Pilonidal Sinus?

Pilonidal sinus consists of chronic inflammatory tunnels and tracts formed by hair becoming embedded under the skin in the intergluteal sulcus (skin fold between the two buttocks near the coccyx).

The disease is usually seen in young men between 15-35 years of age. Prolonged sitting, excessive body hair, and sweat accumulation trigger the disease. Hair becomes embedded under the skin, a foreign body reaction develops, and chronic inflammation begins.

Pilonidal sinus tends to recur. For this reason, surgical technique selection and postoperative wound care are extremely important. When an abscess develops, emergency drainage is required; elective planned surgery is needed to eliminate the sinus.

Symptoms

Pain and tenderness in the tailbone area
Swelling, redness, and warmth in the area
Discharge or bleeding from a small opening (sinus mouth) in the skin
Severe pain and fever during abscess episode
Difficulty sitting for long periods
Periodic discharge and foul-smelling drainage in the chronic phase

Risk Factors

Young male sex (hormonal and structural reasons)
Excessive body hair
Obesity
Occupations requiring prolonged sitting (drivers, desk workers)
Inadequate hygiene
Family history of pilonidal sinus

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden pain, swelling, and fever in the tailbone area (sign of abscess)
  • Purulent or bloody discharge from the area
  • Recurrent inflammatory episodes
  • If chronic drainage negatively affects quality of life
  • Proliferation at the sinus mouth (complicated pilonidal sinus)

Treatment Methods

01
Emergency drainage: evacuation of pus during an abscess episode (rapidly relieves symptoms but is not definitive treatment)
02
Wide excision and open wound follow-up: high recurrence rate
03
Closed primary repair (Karydakis or Bascom flap): modern techniques with low recurrence rates
04
Limberg or rhomboid flap: skin-sliding techniques in extensive cases
05
Sinus tract ablation (SiLaC/laser): minimally invasive laser method
06
Keeping the area shaved after surgery and attention to personal hygiene

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.