Our Treatment

Pilonidal Sinus

The exact causes of pilonidal sinus are not fully understood, but it is believed to occur when hair follicles in the area become irritated and inflamed, leading to the formation of a cyst.

Factors which may increase risk of Pilonidal Sinus includes:

  • Having a family history of the condition
  • Being male (pilonidal sinus is more common in men than women)
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Having excess body hair in the affected area
  • Sitting for prolonged periods of time, particularly on hard surfaces
  • Wearing tight clothing that creates friction in the affected area
  • Poor hygiene, which can lead to bacterial overgrowth and infection

Common symptoms of pilonidal sinus include:

  • Pain and discomfort: The affected area may be tender to the touch, and you may experience pain or discomfort when sitting, standing, or walking.
  • Pus or drainage: The cyst may become infected, causing it to fill with pus and creating a foul-smelling discharge that may be visible on the skin.
  • Redness and swelling: The skin around the cyst may become red and swollen, and the area may feel warm to the touch.
  • Itching: Some people with pilonidal sinus may experience itching in the affected area.

In severe cases, pilonidal sinus may lead to the formation of abscesses or the development of a chronic infection, which can cause fever, fatigue, and other symptoms.

Treatments for Pilonidal sinus:

Ayurvedic Treatment:

  • Kshara Sutra therapy for pilonidal sinus is a type of Ayurvedic surgery that involves the use of a medicated thread to cut and remove the cyst. This technique is believed to be less invasive and have a lower recurrence rate than conventional surgical methods.
  • Ayurvedic treatments such as Panchakarma, a series of cleansing and detoxifying therapies, can help remove toxins from the body and improve overall health.

Surgical Treatment for Anal Fissures:

  • Incision and drainage: For larger cysts or those that are not responding to other treatments, it is recommended a minor surgical procedure to drain the cyst and remove any hair or debris that may be trapped inside.
  • Excision and primary closure: In some cases, the entire cyst and surrounding tissue may need to be removed surgically. This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.
  • Flap procedures: In cases where there is a large wound after surgical removal of the cyst, a flap of skin may be taken from another part of the body to cover the wound and promote healing.
  • Bascom cleft lift procedure: This is a relatively new surgical technique that involves removing the cyst and reconstructing the affected area using nearby tissue. This method has been shown to have a high success rate and low recurrence rate.

There are minimally invasive procedures available for treating anal fistula

  • Laser Treatment
  • Radiofrequency therapy
Answered by our Specialists

Frequently Asked Questions


A pilonidal sinus is a small cyst or abscess that develops in the cleft at the top of the buttocks, near the tailbone.

Pilonidal sinus is typically diagnosed through a physical exam of the affected area, and in some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Yes, pilonidal sinus can be a recurring condition, and some people may experience a recurrence even after successful treatment. Practising good hygiene and following up with your doctor regularly can help prevent future infections.

While it may not be possible to completely prevent pilonidal sinus, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, including keeping the affected area clean and dry, avoiding prolonged periods of sitting and maintaining a healthy weight.

No, pilonidal sinus is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.

Fill this Form

Book Appointment