Pilonidal Sinus
What is a Pilonidal Sinus?
A pilonidal sinus is a small hole or tunnel in the natal cleft (the area between your buttocks), usually filled with fluid or pus, that causes a cyst or abscess. It typically forms in the cleft at the top of the buttocks and develops due to the burying of hair under the skin. The early stages of the disease may present as a small, dimple-like depression on the surface of the skin. However, once the depression becomes infected, it will quickly develop into a cyst (a closed sac filled with fluid) or an abscess (a swollen and inflamed tissue where pus collects). This condition commonly affects young adults, approximately 1 in 100 young men are diagnosed with this condition. Females are approximately 29% of Australian cases.
Symptoms
Commonly observed symptoms include:
- Pain felt when sitting or standing
- Tailbone Pain
- Reddened, sore skin around the affected area
- Pus or blood oozing from the abscess, accompanied with a foul smell
- Hair projecting out from the affected part
Causes
The exact cause for pilonidal sinus is not known but the following factors are said to increase risk of the condition:
- Hair growth that penetrates the skin
- Being seated for a long time
- Gender: Men are more at risk of developing the sinus
- Reduced physical activity or obesity at young age
Prevention
Preventive measures include:
- Avoid being seated for a long time
- Clean the cleft above the buttocks everyday
- Maintain a healthy height-to-weight ratio
Diagnosis
Your GP or Dr Golani would be able to diagnose the condition by just examining the cyst or abscess.
Surgery for Pilonidal Sinus
Pilonidal sinus surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Opening the Sinus: The procedure includes opening up the abscess and sinus, trimming any edges of the skin, and removing any inflamed tissue surrounding the area.
- Removing Debris: Dr Golani removes hairs, infected tissue, and any debris, while performing an assessment of the inside of the sinus.
Post-Operative Dressing
Post-operative vacuum dressing for pilonidal sinus surgery involves:
- Moist Dressing: A fresh, plain cotton gauze is moistened with tap water, excess water is squeezed out, and the wound is packed gently but not tightly with the moist gauze.
- Protective Dressing: The dressing applied over the top of the wound bed protects the wound from friction, catches drainage, and provides a moist healing environment.
Post-Operative Care
- Pain can vary among patients from some patients having no pain to some patients having moderate pain. This is best treated with a combination of Panadol two (2) tablets every 4-6 hours, Nurofen (200 mg) two (2) tablets every 8 hours. Occasionally you might require strong painkillers like Endone.
- No driving for first 7 days or if you are on strong painkillers.
- No cycling/running/swimming until the wound is healed.
It's important to follow the Dr Golani's instructions for wound care to promote healing and prevent complications. Follow-up visits are also crucial for monitoring the recovery process.
Understanding the Costs of Pilonidal Sinus Surgery
We understand that the idea of surgery and its associated costs can be overwhelming. To get a better understanding of potential costs, you can review information about hospital and insurance options here. Please note that an initial consultation is necessary to confirm your diagnosis. Once your diagnosis is confirmed, we can provide a more detailed cost estimate for your surgery.
Quality of Life
Prompt medical attention is crucial for pilonidal sinus conditions. Understanding the symptoms and seeking timely treatment can lead to effective management and relief.
Your Consultation
Dr. Golani will provide further discussion regarding the specifics of your diagnosis during your consultation. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to select the hospital for your procedure and potentially set the date for your procedure.
The best surgical hospitals are available for your surgery:
- Sydney Adventist Hospital, Wahroonga - Sydney
- The Mater Hospital, North Sydney - Sydney
- Norwest Private Hospital, Bella Vista - Sydney
- Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Hornsby - Sydney
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Golani, please contact our team for a consultation with Dr Golani. We have appointments available at three convenient locations across Sydney:
Please note that a GP referral will be required prior to your consultation.
Contact Us
To make an initial consultation booking, please contact our office on 02 8599 9819.
Click here to email usHornsby Clinic Address:
Madison BuildingSuite 7, 25-29 Hunter St,
Hornsby NSW 2077
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976
HealthLink: drgolani
Our Horsnby clinic is located conviniently next to Hornsby Westfield & Hornsby Station
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Mater Clinic Address:
Suite 13, Level 1 Mater ClinicMater Hospital
25 Rocklands Rd, North Sydney NSW 2060
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976
HealthLink: drgolani
Our Mater clinic is located within Mater Hospital. Parking and Entry (convenient Pickup and Drop Zone) is via 5 Gillies St, Wollstonecraft.
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Norwest Clinic Address:
Suite 301C, Level 3Q Central Building
10 Norbrik Dr, Bella Vista NSW 2153
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976
HealthLink: drgolani
Our Norwest - Bella Vista clinic is located within Q Central Building - opposite Norwest Private Hospital. Free Limited Parking is available within the Q Central Building. There is a drop off zone outside of the building. Paid parking is available opposite at Norwest Private Hospital. Additionally there is parking at Woolworths Norwest Circa (5 minutes walk from the Clinic)
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What do I bring to my appointment?
- Referral letter
- X-Rays/Scans
- Test results relating to referral
- Health fund card
- Medicare card
Procedures
Dr. Golani offers an extensive range of General and Colorectal Surgical procedures, expertly addressing a diverse array of symptoms, conditions, and diseases. His patient-focused approach ensures personalised care tailored to individual needs.
Bowel Cancer
Dr. Golani delivers exceptional outcomes in laparoscopic resections for both bowel and rectal cancers, combining expertise with advanced surgical techniques to ensure the highest standard of care.
Hernia Surgery
Dr. Golani specialises in hernia repair surgeries, expertly treating ventral hernias as well as performing advanced laparoscopic procedures for inguinal, femoral, and umbilical hernias. His expertise ensures precise and effective care.
Gall Bladder Surgery
Dr. Golani specialises in minimally invasive gall bladder surgery, ensuring faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays with advanced surgical techniques.
Colonoscopy
Dr. Golani is certified by GESA in advanced endoscopic techniques, enabling him to expertly perform colonoscopies and remove large polyps with precision and care.
Rectal Prolapse Surgery
Dr. Golani is an expert in Laparoscopic Ventral Mesh Rectopexy, a highly effective and minimally invasive procedure for rectal prolapse. His advanced skills ensure precise care and improved outcomes for his patients.
Anal Fistulas & Fissures
Dr. Golani offers expert care in managing painful anal fistulas and fissures, providing effective treatments tailored to relieve discomfort and improve quality of life.
Haemorrhoids
Dr. Golani is highly skilled in both traditional and advanced surgical techniques for treating haemorrhoids, offering effective solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Gastroscopy & Endoscopy
Dr. Golani is accredited by the Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA), ensuring advanced expertise and high standards in performing gastroscopy and endoscopy procedures.
