| Procedure Name | Alternative Name | Conditions Treated | Benefits of Procedure | Treated By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Surgery for Pilonidal Sinus | Laser Pilonidoplasty | Acute and chronic pilonidal sinus | Less pain, No cuts or incisions, Fewer complications, Fast recovery | General Surgeon |
What is Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery
A pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel or tract in the skin near the tailbone, typically in the cleft between the buttocks. Our skin contains hair follicles, which are tiny openings where hair grows.
In the area near the tailbone, these hair follicles can sometimes become clogged with hair and debris. It can create a warm and moist environment under the skin, which is ideal for bacteria to thrive.
Bacteria can trigger an inflammatory response from the immune system. This causes the affected area to become red, swollen, and painful.
In some cases, the inflammation can lead to a pus-filled abscess beneath the skin. This abscess can continue to grow, causing more discomfort. Over time, as the abscess drains or is treated, a small tunnel or sinus may form beneath the surface of the skin.
This tunnel can become a recurring issue as hair and debris may continue to accumulate, causing inflammation, pain, and infection. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to address the problem.
Laser treatment for pilonidal sinus is a minimally invasive method that effectively treats the condition. It utilises a laser to eliminate sinus tracts through several incisions.
This approach promotes quicker healing and lowers the chances of complications. Patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. This makes laser treatment suitable for those preferring a less invasive option for pilonidal sinus treatment.
Who needs Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery?
Laser surgery for pilonidal sinus is a procedure to address both acute and chronic cases. A doctor recommends surgery when the pilonidal sinus is recurrent and becomes infected. The indications of pilonidal sinus laser surgery are:
- Pain or discomfort in the lower back or buttock cleft
- Swelling, redness, or a small lump in the tailbone area
- Drainage of pus or blood from an opening in the skin
- Soreness or tenderness in the affected region
- Formation of abscesses (painful, swollen pockets of infection)
- Recurrent infections in the same area
Benefits of Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery
Laser surgery for pilonidal sinus is a modern approach to treating this condition. It offers multiple advantages that can significantly enhance the quality of life. These benefits are:
- Minimal to no pain
- No need for incisions or stitches
- Reduced risk of bleeding
- Swift recovery
- The ability to return home on the same day
- Low cases of recurrence
- Decreased risk of infection
Protocol Before and On the Day of Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery
Patients often have concerns about what happens during the laser surgery. This section provides insight into the preparations before and on the day of the procedure.
Before Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery
Prior to laser treatment for pilonidal sinus, the medical team follows a set of protocols to guarantee the safety of the patient.
| Parameters | Prerequisites |
|---|---|
| Pre-op Assessment (Physical) | Blood Tests |
| Risk Evaluation | 1. Allergies 2. Benefits vs risks of the procedure |
| Anaesthesia Selection | Regional or Spinal anaesthesia |
| Fasting | 4–6 hours before surgery |
On the Day of Laser Fistula Surgery
On the day of laser fistula treatment, one can expect the following:
| Parameter | Prerequisites |
|---|---|
| Consent | Mandatory |
| Surgical Preparation | 1. Hospital gown 2. Briefing of procedure 3. Removing all accessories like watch, belt, jewellery, etc. |
| Physical Evaluation | Vitals check-up (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, etc.) |
| IV Line | Yes, for administering medications |
| Anaesthesia Administration | Regional or Spinal anaesthesia |
How is Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery Performed?
Laser pilonidal sinus surgery takes around 30 to 45 minutes. This procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort. The procedure is performed by a general surgeon as below:
- Positioning: The patient lies on their abdomen with the head and feet lower than the middle portion. This position allows the surgeon to see the pilonidal sinus clearly.
- Anaesthesia: Regional or spinal anaesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist to prevent any discomfort during the surgery.
- Incision: The surgeon makes a cross-shaped incision on the abscess, removing damaged tissue and identifying the sinus.
- Clearing the Sinus: The surgeon clears the sinus tract with iodine solution.
- Laser Treatment: Using a diode laser (8W with 1470 nm), the surgeon removes damaged tissue along the entire sinus tract.
- Fluid Drainage: After the laser treatment, the surgeon squeezes the tract to remove any fluid, flushing it with a saline and hydrogen peroxide solution.
- Sealing: The surgeon uses a fibre to seal the entire sinus tract.
- Dressing: The wound may be left open for drainage, or they may choose closed healing with instructions for using sanitary pads to absorb drainage.
Cost of Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery
Laser pilonidal sinus surgery ranges from ₹ 40,000 to ₹ 90,000. Several key factors determine the cost. It includes:
- Consultation fee
- Diagnostic tests required for laser surgery
- Admission fees
- The type of hospital
- Choice of hospital recovery room
- Location or city of the hospital
| Procedure | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pilonidal Sinus Laser Surgery | ₹ 40,000 to ₹ 90,000 |
Takeaway
Laser fistula treatment has a high success rate, offering key advantages. Patients often experience less pain during and after the procedure, a major concern in surgery.
Furthermore, the minimal or absent incontinence rates and quicker recovery contribute to heightened patient satisfaction. The precision of laser technology improves overall outcomes compared to traditional methods.