Pilonidal sinus surgery treats a recurring channel of infection at the base of the tail-bone, using day-case techniques chosen specifically to reduce the risk of it returning. Mr Kimble plans treatment around the extent of the disease rather than a one-size-fits-all protocol.
What is a pilonidal sinus?
A pilonidal sinus is a small channel or cavity that develops in the skin at the top of the buttock cleft, usually caused by trapped hair and debris triggering inflammation. It ranges from a minor, occasional nuisance to a painful, recurring problem needing surgery.
Symptoms worth getting checked
- Pain or swelling at the base of the spine
- A small pit or opening in the skin
- Discharge, sometimes with an odour
- Redness and tenderness
- Recurrent abscesses in the same spot
- Symptoms that keep coming back after treatment
Mr Kimble assesses the extent of the disease before recommending an approach, and always discusses recurrence risk honestly upfront.
Your treatment options
Mr Kimble assesses the extent of the disease before recommending an approach, and always discusses recurrence risk honestly upfront.
For mild or early disease, hair removal and hygiene measures can be enough to settle things down.
For an acute, infected abscess, a quick procedure to relieve pain and clear infection, often the first step before definitive treatment.
Removal of the sinus tract through a smaller incision, chosen where appropriate to support quicker healing and a better cosmetic result.
For more complex or recurrent disease, wider surgical excision with a wound-care plan designed specifically to reduce the risk of it returning.
Recovery & aftercare
Most procedures are day-case. Wound care is the single biggest factor in avoiding recurrence, so you’ll leave with clear, specific instructions, dressing supplies where needed, and a direct line to the team if anything doesn’t look right.
Repeated infections in the same spot are a sign the underlying tract needs proper treatment, not just antibiotics. An assessment now can prevent a much bigger procedure later.
This is the one area where healing time genuinely varies. Drainage of an abscess: better within days. Minimally invasive excision: a couple of weeks of care before you’re back to normal. Open excision: it can take several weeks for the wound to fully heal — Mr Kimble will tell you exactly what to expect for your case, not an average.
