Pilonidal surgery refers to a surgical procedure performed to treat a pilonidal cyst or abscess. A pilonidal cyst is a pocket or sac filled with hair, debris, and skin that forms near the cleft of the buttocks. If the cyst becomes infected, it can lead to the formation of an abscess, causing pain, swelling, and discomfort.

The surgical options for pilonidal cysts include:

1. Incision and Drainage:

• For an infected cyst or abscess, a minor surgical procedure may involve making an incision to drain the pus and remove hair and debris.
• This is often a relatively simple outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia.

2. Excisional Surgery:

• In cases of recurrent or chronic pilonidal disease, a more extensive excisional surgery may be recommended.
• The surgeon removes the entire cyst along with surrounding tissue to prevent recurrence.
• Closure of the wound may involve primary closure (directly stitching the wound) or leaving it open to heal gradually.

3. Limberg Flap Procedure:

• In some cases, a Limberg flap procedure may be performed, which involves creating a flap of adjacent skin to cover the wound.
• This can reduce the risk of recurrence and promote faster healing.

Aftercare:

• Postoperative care involves keeping the wound clean and dry.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection.
• Recovery time can vary, and patients are typically advised to avoid activities that put stress on the healing area.

The choice of surgical procedure depends on factors such as the severity of the condition, the presence of infection, and the likelihood of recurrence. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the most appropriate surgical approach for an individual’s specific case.