What are the important details about Pilonidal sinus surgery?

Dear Aditya Mishra ji,

A pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel or cavity that develops near the tailbone (between the buttocks). It is often caused by ingrown hair, friction, or infection. If left untreated, it can become infected repeatedly, leading to pain, swelling, pus discharge, and abscess formation.

Common Symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus

• Pain and swelling near the tailbone.

• Redness and tenderness around the affected area.

• Pus or blood discharge from a small opening.

• Foul-smelling discharge.

• Fever if an abscess or severe infection develops.

Treatment Options for Pilonidal Sinus

Non-Surgical Treatment

In the early stages or during an acute infection, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics (if prescribed by the doctor).

• Drainage of an abscess.

• Regular wound care and maintaining proper hygiene.

However, non-surgical treatment usually does not remove the sinus tract, so recurrence is common.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is the most effective treatment for recurrent or chronic pilonidal sinus. The procedure depends on the size, complexity, and extent of the disease.

Common surgical options include:

• Open Excision (Excision and Marsupialization): The sinus tract is removed, and the wound is left open to heal gradually, reducing the risk of recurrence.

• Closed Excision (Primary Closure): The sinus is removed, and the wound is closed with stitches, allowing faster healing.

• Laser Pilonidal Sinus Surgery (FiLaC): A minimally invasive laser procedure that seals the sinus tract with less pain, minimal scarring, and faster recovery.

• Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Treatment (EPSiT): An endoscopic technique used to clean and treat the sinus tract from the inside through a small opening.

• Pit Picking Procedure: A minimally invasive option suitable for selected early cases.

The most appropriate treatment is decided by the surgeon after evaluating the condition.

Is Pilonidal Sinus Surgery Covered Under Ayushman Bharat?

Yes. If you are eligible for Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), treatment for pilonidal sinus, including eligible surgical procedures, may be covered at Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospitals, as per the applicable PM-JAY package guidelines.

How to Find an Ayushman Bharat Hospital

Option 1: PM-JAY Website
Visit the Ayushman website, click "Find Hospital", select your State, District, Hospital Type, and Speciality, complete the captcha, and click Search.

Option 2: HexaHealth Website
Visit the HexaHealth website, go to the Footer section, choose "Ayushman Bharat Hospitals", select your State and City, and browse the list of empanelled hospitals.

Recovery Tips

• Keep the affected area clean and dry.

• Follow all wound-care instructions provided by your surgeon.

• Avoid prolonged sitting during the initial recovery period.

• If advised, remove hair around the area to reduce the risk of recurrence.

• Attend all follow-up appointments.

How HexaHealth Can Help

HexaHealth can support you by:

• Connecting you with experienced proctologists and general surgeons.

• Helping you find Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospitals.

• Assisting with doctor consultations, investigations, and surgery bookings.

• Guiding you through Ayushman Bharat eligibility, documentation, and cashless treatment.

• Providing end-to-end support throughout your treatment journey.

Please Share These Details

To help us recommend the most suitable specialist and hospital, kindly share:

• Your city name?

• Has the doctor confirmed a pilonidal sinus or advised surgery?

• Is there pain, swelling, pus discharge, or recurrent infection?

• Do you have an Ayushman Bharat Card or any other health insurance?

Once you share these details, we'll help you connect with the most suitable surgeon and Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospital near you.