Pilonidal Cyst

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider can often diagnose a pilonidal cyst by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, personal habits, and examining the affected skin.

Treatment

Most pilonidal cysts are treated in the healthcare provider’s office. After numbing the area, the provider makes a small incision to drain the cyst.

If the cyst recurs, surgery may be needed. During surgery, the cyst is removed through an incision. Post-surgery care depends on how the wound is managed:

• Leave the wound open: The surgeon leaves the wound open and packs it with dressing. This allows healing from the inside out. Healing takes longer but reduces the chance of recurrence.
• Close the wound with stitches: The surgeon closes the wound with stitches. Healing is faster, but there is a higher risk of the cyst returning.

Wound care is critical after surgery. Your provider will show how to change dressings, explain the healing process, and advise when to call for help. Shaving around the surgical site may be recommended to prevent hairs from entering the wound.

Preparing for your appointment

You will likely start with your primary care provider. In some cases, you may be referred directly to a surgeon or dermatologist.

Before your appointment, consider writing down answers to these questions:

• When did your symptoms begin?
• Have you experienced this problem before?
• Does anything improve your symptoms?
• What seems to worsen your symptoms?
• What medications or supplements do you take regularly?

What to expect from your doctor

Your healthcare provider may ask questions such as:

• Have you had a fever?
• Is the pain keeping you awake at night?
• What is your occupation, and do you sit for long periods?