Prof. Dr. Emre Sivrikoz

Area of Expertise

Pilonidal Sinus

Pilonidal sinus is a chronic infection and sinus formation that develops in the tailbone area when hair penetrates under the skin. It may cause recurrent abscesses, discharge, swelling, and pain that can significantly affect quality of life.

Patient Information

What Is Pilonidal Sinus?

Pilonidal sinus is a chronic infection and sinus formation that develops in the tailbone area when hair penetrates under the skin. Over time, it may lead to discharge, swelling, pain, and recurrent abscess attacks.

Many patients do not seek care at the earliest stage. They often present after recurrent infection or abscess formation. Therefore, choosing the correct treatment technique is important for reducing the risk of recurrence.

Commonly Used Terms

The same condition may be referred to by different names in daily language and medical terminology.

Pilonidal sinus The medical term describing sinus tracts in the tailbone region.
Pilonidal cyst A commonly used term, especially when a cyst-like cavity is present.
Hair nest disease A descriptive term used because hair penetration plays a key role in the condition.

Symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus

Pilonidal sinus may start with mild symptoms. In more advanced stages, pain, swelling, discharge, and recurrent abscesses may become more noticeable.

Common symptoms

  • Pain while sitting
  • Swelling in the tailbone area
  • Discharge
  • Recurrent abscess formation
Most patients seek medical attention after recurrent infection rather than at the earliest stage.

Why Does Pilonidal Sinus Recur?

Recurrence is one of the most important issues in pilonidal sinus disease. Incomplete treatment, leaving sinus openings behind, choosing an unsuitable technique, or inadequate postoperative care may increase the risk of recurrence.

Main causes of recurrence

  • Incomplete treatment
  • Remaining sinus openings
  • Inappropriate technique selection
  • Insufficient postoperative care

Core surgical principle: correct technique = lower recurrence.

Treatment Options

Treatment is planned according to whether there is an acute abscess, the extent of sinus tracts, whether previous surgery has been performed, and whether the disease has recurred.

Acute abscess drainage When an abscess forms, drainage is performed. This provides temporary relief but is not definitive treatment.
Minimally invasive methods Laser sinus closure and limited surgical techniques may be preferred in suitable patients.
Surgical methods Flap procedures may be preferred in advanced or recurrent cases.

Advantages of minimally invasive methods

  • Less pain
  • Faster recovery
  • Earlier return to daily life

Advantages of Modern Methods

In modern pilonidal sinus treatment, the goal is to treat the diseased area effectively while reducing tissue damage, accelerating recovery, and lowering the risk of recurrence.

Main advantages

  • Less tissue damage
  • Faster recovery
  • Lower recurrence rates
  • Better cosmetic results

Recovery Process

The recovery process may vary depending on the technique used and the extent of the disease. With minimally invasive methods, return to daily life is usually faster.

1 Discharge

Same-day discharge is possible in many patients.

2 Return to work

Return to work may be possible within a few days.

3 Wound care

Follow-up can often be managed with minimal dressing needs.

When should you seek medical evaluation?

  • Pain or swelling in the tailbone area
  • Discharge from the affected area
  • Recurrent abscess attacks
  • Symptoms returning after previous surgery

Early and accurate evaluation helps determine the most appropriate treatment method and may reduce the risk of recurrence.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Pilonidal Sinus

It develops when hair penetrates under the skin and causes infection and sinus formation. Prolonged sitting and sweating are important risk factors.
It is more common in young men, individuals with dense body hair, and people who work in seated positions for long periods.
No. If left untreated, it may become chronic and lead to recurrent infections.
Urgent drainage is performed. However, drainage is not definitive treatment; it only provides relief during the abscess stage.
Yes. In suitable cases, minimally invasive laser treatment can be highly effective.
The best method depends on the stage and extent of the disease. Choosing the correct technique helps reduce the risk of recurrence.
Recovery may take only a few days with minimally invasive methods. Traditional surgical procedures may require a longer recovery period.
Yes. It may recur if appropriate treatment is not performed. Modern techniques can help reduce recurrence rates.
Hygiene, keeping the area dry, and controlling hair growth are important. The postoperative care plan recommended by the doctor should be followed.
Yes. Laser hair removal or regular hair control may help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Real Reviews

Patient Information Note

This content is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Patients with pain, swelling, discharge, abscess formation, or recurrent symptoms after previous treatment in the tailbone area should consult a general surgeon. Pilonidal sinus treatment should be planned individually according to the stage of the disease.

Written by

Prof. Dr. Emre Sivrikoz, General Surgeon
Clinical experience in pilonidal sinus, proctology, and minimally invasive surgery

Medical Review

Last updated: 02 / 2026

Sources

  • American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS)
  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
  • Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES)
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