Pilonidal Cyst Specialist Los Angeles

Welcome to Surgery Group of LA, your trusted destination for comprehensive care and expert treatment of pilonidal cysts and sinus disease. Our team of experienced colorectal surgeons are experts in diagnosing and treating pilonidal cysts, offering advanced surgical solutions to ensure your health and well-being.

Overview

A pilonidal cyst (sacrococcygeal fistula) is an abnormal pocket in the skin that usually locates itself above the buttocks near the tailbone. The cyst looks much like a pimple and commonly contains hair and skin debris. If the cyst becomes infected it can result in a really painful abscess that requires clinical attention. Pilonidal cysts were first described in 1833 by Herbert Mayo. The term pilonidal is derived from the Latin words “pilus” (hair) and “nidus” (nest). While pilonidal cysts occur more frequently in men than in women, they are also more common in people of Middle Eastern and Caucasian descent than in other racial groups.

Symptoms & Causes

What causes Pilonidal Cysts?

Pilonidal cysts, or pilonidal sinus disease, are bothersome skin conditions that often develop near the tailbone. They can cause discomfort and complications, making it crucial to understand their nature. Pilonidal cysts occur when hair follicles become blocked, leading to inflammation and cyst formation. While the exact cause isn’t always clear-cut, it is widely believed to involve a combination of factors:

Hair Follicle Irritation: One primary factor is the irritation or blockage of hair follicles in the affected area. When hair becomes trapped or ingrown, it can trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation and cyst formation.
Friction and Pressure: Activities or conditions that subject the area to prolonged friction, pressure, or repetitive trauma, such as sitting for extended periods or wearing tight clothing, can contribute to developing pilonidal cysts.
Genetic Predisposition: Genetics may also play a role, as some individuals appear to have a higher susceptibility to pilonidal cysts due to their family history.

What are the symptoms of Pilonidal Cysts?

Pilonidal cysts often start as small, painless lumps under the skin. However, if left untreated or subjected to continued irritation, they can progress to a more troublesome state. The hallmark features of pilonidal cysts include:

Pain and Discomfort: As cysts grow or become infected, they can cause pain, soreness, and discomfort in the lower back or buttocks.
Swelling and Inflammation: Inflamed cysts may lead to noticeable swelling in the affected area, often accompanied by redness and warmth.
Drainage and Pus: An infected pilonidal cyst may result in the discharge of foul-smelling fluid or pus.
Blood Drainage: Drainage may be accompanied by blood and can soil clothing.
Fever and General Malaise: In cases of severe infection, individuals may experience fever, chills, and a general feeling of illness.

Diagnosis & Screening

How are Pilonidal Cysts Diagnosed?

At Surgery Group of LA, our specialists are well-versed in identifying pilonidal cysts and distinguishing them from other skin issues. Through a comprehensive evaluation, including asking patients about their symptoms and a physical examination of the affected area, we can provide a precise diagnosis. This precision is crucial in tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Treatment

How are Pilonidal Cysts Treated?

While surgery is often the primary treatment for pilonidal cysts, non-surgical approaches can be crucial in managing the condition, especially for less severe cases or as part of post-operative care. Non-surgical treatments may include:

Antibiotics: In cases of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to control the spread of bacteria and facilitate healing.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can help alleviate discomfort associated with pilonidal cysts.
Wound Care: Proper wound care and hygiene practices are essential for preventing infection and promoting healing, both before and after surgery.
Lifestyle Modifications: Making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding prolonged sitting, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and maintaining good personal hygiene, can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

What surgical interventions are used to treat Pilonidal Cysts?

Our team of skilled colorectal surgeons specializes in performing pilonidal cyst surgery, utilizing the latest surgical techniques and equipment. Surgical intervention is often recommended when the cyst is large, recurrent, or associated with complications such as abscesses.

Incision and Drainage: For acute infections or abscess formation, a minor surgical procedure involving lancing the cyst and draining the pus within it may be recommended. This is typically a simple procedure performed in the office under a local anesthetic. This helps alleviate pain and facilitates healing.
Excision: Should an excision of the abscess be necessary, the area will be surgically opened and a complete debridement will be performed. This technique is often favored by physicians because there is a decreased risk of wound complications. Since the wound is being left open to heal, there is little risk of an actual wound infection.

Cutting-Edge Flap-Based Pilonidal Treatment Technique

Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Barnajian, renowned experts in Los Angeles, specialize in the advanced treatment of pilonidal cysts. Through decades of dedication and refinement, they have perfected a cutting-edge outpatient procedure known as “bilateral fasciocutaneous gluteal flaps with tie over sutures and incorporation of extracellular matrix.” This innovative technique offers several distinct advantages over conventional methods:

Outpatient Convenience: Patients can return home shortly after the procedure, minimizing disruption to their daily lives.
Minimal Postoperative Discomfort: Most patients experience remarkably low pain levels following the operation, enhancing their overall comfort during recovery.
Cosmetically Appealing Results: The procedure yields a cosmetically desirable midline scar that seamlessly aligns with the natural buttock crease, ensuring aesthetic satisfaction.
Low Complication Rate: This technique is associated with minimal risk of complications, including wound infections or wound opening, promoting a smooth recovery process.
Near-Zero Recurrence: Patients can have confidence in the procedure’s effectiveness, as it boasts a low recurrence rate, minimizing the chances of the condition returning.

Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Barnajian’s expertise extends beyond their practice. They have extensively documented and shared their technical proficiency and exceptional outcomes in peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, they have made knowledge of this technique accessible to a wider medical community, by creating high-quality instructional videos detailing the procedure, and delivered numerous talks to patients and fellow surgeons nationwide.

Prevention

How Can I Prevent Pilonidal Cysts?

Preventing pilonidal cysts and reducing the risk of recurrence involves a combination of strategies and lifestyle modifications, which include:

Hair Removal: Regularly shaving or using depilatory creams in the lower back and buttock area can help reduce the risk of hair follicles becoming trapped or ingrown.
Proper Hygiene: Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential. Gently cleanse the area daily with mild soap and water to prevent the accumulation of dirt and bacteria.
Avoid Tight Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing, especially in the affected area. Tight garments can increase friction and pressure, which may contribute to pilonidal cyst development.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Whenever possible, minimize extended periods of sitting. If you have a sedentary job, take short breaks to stand, stretch, and walk around to relieve pressure on the tailbone.
Stay Active: Regular physical activity can improve overall health and reduce the risk of obesity, which is a known risk factor for pilonidal cysts. Incorporate exercise into your routine to maintain a healthy body weight.

Prognosis

What happens if a Pilonidal Cyst is Left Untreated?

In some cases, small pilonidal cysts may go away on their own without treatment. However, most cysts can potentially become infected, leading to the exacerbation of symptoms. Infection can occur due to factors like hair follicle irritation, bacterial invasion, or compromised hygiene practices. When a pilonidal cyst is left untreated, infected cysts can rapidly progress, causing increased pain, swelling, and more pronounced drainage.

The development of an abscess within the cyst is a common complication of infection. Abscesses can be extremely painful and require prompt medical attention to prevent further complications.

Experience matters. Our surgeons have achieved the highest standard of recognition for their expertise and skill.

More importantly, our team of world-renowned surgeons have saved countless lives, and have enabled countless more to live healthy, happy lives.

Successful Surgeries

25000 +

Years of Combined Experience

Schedule a consultation with a Pilonidal Cyst Specialist Near Me

If you are experiencing pain due to pilonidal disease, you should contact our office for an immediate evaluation. Our state-of-the-art facility provides the highest quality treatment for patients. Surgery Group of LA boasts a team of world-class colorectal surgeons, Dr. Yosef Nasseri and Dr. Moshe Barnajian who specialize in pilonidal cysts with a proven track record of successful outcomes in treating patients with this common ailment.

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