Pilonidal Cyst Excision (with/without Flap Rotation)
Cost: $4,065 USD
Hospitalization duration: 2 days
What is Pilonidal Cyst Excision?
Pilonidal cyst excision is a surgical procedure performed to remove a pilonidal cyst, an abnormal formation usually located in the sacrococcygeal region, near the base of the spine. Pilonidal cysts can cause pain, recurrent infections, swelling, and in some cases, discharge. This procedure is performed to remove the cyst and prevent future infections or recurrences.
The surgery can be performed with or without the flap rotation technique, depending on the extent of the cyst and the need to cover the treated area. Flap rotation involves using nearby skin and tissue to cover the excision area, facilitating healing and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Includes
- Medical Team
The intervention is performed by a team specialized in general surgery or proctology, ensuring a complete and safe excision of the cyst.
- Laboratory
Includes complete pre-surgical studies to evaluate the patient’s general health and ensure that he or she is in optimal condition for the intervention.
- Office
Chest imaging examination using a telescopic chest x-ray, which helps to rule out respiratory or cardiac problems that could affect the safety of surgery and anesthesia.
- Preoperative evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
A complete evaluation by an internist and an electrocardiogram (EKG) to confirm that the patient is in adequate condition for the procedure
- Postoperative visits
Follow-up after surgery to monitor wound healing, ensure proper recovery, and reduce the risk of infections or complications.
- Pathology study
The removed cyst is sent to the laboratory for pathological analysis, which allows the diagnosis to be confirmed and any other conditions to be ruled out.
Preparing for surgery
For excision of a pilonidal cyst, the medical team usually recommends:
- Fasting for at least 6 to 8 hours before surgery if general anesthesia is required.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, especially those that affect blood clotting.
- Avoiding the use of creams or products in the cyst area to facilitate proper disinfection and preparation of the skin before surgery.
Recovery
Recovery after pilonidal cyst excision can vary, especially if performed with flap rotation. During the recovery period, it is recommended to:
- Avoid intense physical effort and sudden movements to ensure proper healing.
- Keep the wound clean and dry, following the instructions of the medical team to prevent infections.
- Take painkillers as instructed by the doctor to control any postoperative discomfort or pain.
In cases of flap rotation, recovery may require more time off and extra care of the treated area. Most patients can return to daily activities in 1 to 2 weeks, but should avoid strenuous exercise for about 4 to 6 weeks.
Risks and Complications
Pilonidal cyst excision is a safe procedure, but like all surgery, it carries some risks, including:
- Infection at the incision site, which may require treatment with antibiotics.
- Formation of hematomas or seromas (fluid accumulation) in the treated area.
- Recurrence of the cyst in rare cases, especially if the cyst is not completely removed.
The medical team provides detailed instructions to minimize these risks and ensure a smooth recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
The surgery is performed under anesthesia, so the patient should not experience pain during the procedure. There may be discomfort in the incision area afterwards, which is controlled with painkillers.
Initial healing is usually complete in about two weeks, although total recovery time may extend up to 4 to 6 weeks, especially if flap rotation was performed.
There is a small risk of recurrence, especially if the cyst was not completely removed. The flap rotation technique helps reduce this risk.