ByPilonidal cyst removal is important for the overall well-being of the patient. There is nothing to fret though. The removal of the pilonidal cyst is a safe procedure. The procedure of removal will, however, depend upon the type of cyst and the magnitude of the problem. From gentle incision and drainage to a more comprehensive pilonidal surgery, the treatment approach gradually becomes more invasive as the severity of the condition increases. Understandably, the post-procedure recovery time varies. Here’s what to expect after a pilonidal cyst removal surgery:
Types Of Pilonidal Cyst Removal Surgery
After the colorectal surgeon performs the initial investigations and identifies the need for a cyst removal surgery, the entire treatment plan is drafted that starts from preparing for the procedure, post-surgery care till the final recovery phase.
The broad timeframe for recovery will depend upon the type of surgical procedure – open wounds or closed wounds.
Open Wounds
This is a preferred treatment approach for cases wherein the cyst is infected before surgery. It aids in healing right from the point of excision to its way outwards, ensuring proper and thorough healing.
But as the wound is left open, the complete recovery time is longer. Also, it requires more post-procedure care to prevent any contamination and risk of infection. The complete recovery takes about two months or more.
Closed Wounds
For people looking for faster recovery and if the type of pilonidal cyst supports it, the colorectal surgeon may recommend the rhomboid flap technique wherein a rhomboid-shaped excision is made to remove the cyst and infection. Subsequently, the hollow wound space is packed with nearby healthy skin. The grafted skin is then stuck with sutures and the wound is properly closed and sealed. This reduces the recovery time significantly with many patients recovering completely within two weeks. However, doctors experience a high risk of relapse as almost 25% of the patients tend to develop an infection at the pilonidal cyst site.
Steps To Aid Post-Procedure Recovery
No matter what type of pilonidal cyst removal procedure one undergoes, proper post-procedure care is required to expedite healing and enjoy faster healing. Here are a few self-care tips to follow:
- In case of open wound surgery, change the gauze packing and clean the surgery site two to three times a day. Make sure you use a sterilized gauze with an antibacterial ointment to clean the area. Do not use solutions that contain alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean the affected area.
- For closed wounds, a change in dressing is required every two days. Make sure you keep the site dry.
- Ensure proper hydration and take a fiber supplement to avoid constipation. This will reduce the pressure on the sutures.
- Go for daily walks and light exercise. Do not strain your lower back muscles.
- Use a soft and cushioned pillow while sitting. Avoid hard chairs and prolonged sitting hours.
- Make sure you keep the area around the cyst hair-free. Shave, wax, or go in for laser hair removal around the area to eliminate the risk of hair follicle breakage.
- Cases of open wound surgery will require several follow-up appointments. On the other hand, cases of closed wounds require follow-up checks for suture removal after a few weeks.
Problem Signs To Watch Out For
Most cases of pilonidal cyst surgery lead to a smooth recovery automatically. If things go as planned, the patient will typically be able to resume their routine chores and activities within two weeks. However, certain problem signs must not be ignored. These include:
- Pain or redness at the incision site
- Swelling or inflammation at the site of surgery
- The area is tender to touch
- The area feels warmer than the surrounding area
- Signs of discharge or pus oozing out of the wound
- Fever or chills
- Any other sign of infection
Exerting too much pressure in the lower area may cause the sutures to break. Get in touch with your doctor immediately, if you feel the stitches are coming loose or falling out.
Can A Pilonidal Cyst Recur Again Post Surgery?
Unfortunately, a pilonidal cyst can recur even after surgery. Statistics reveal that almost 13-32% of the cases recur depending upon the type of surgical procedure opted for. The cyst typically returns if the area gets infected again or there is hair growth around the incision site. Experts suggest that it might require more than one surgery to get rid of a pilonidal cyst completely.
Final Thoughts
A pilonidal cyst is a painful sac that develops at the end of the tailbone. It is triggered in the hair follicle space and worsens due to the accumulation of skin debris and infection. An appointment with a renowned and experienced colorectal surgeon like Allen Kamrava MD MBA can help you overcome the condition with the proper guidance and supporting medical treatment. With the right treatment approach and careful post-procedure management, one can effectively get rid of the tailbone cyst. It is best to seek advice early on to enjoy a better disease prognosis.
