Laser Assisted Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

Pilonidal sinus disease is a chronic infectious condition characterized by the formation of cysts or abscesses at the base of the spine or tail-bone. Traditional surgical methods of treatment involve excision of the sinus and surrounding tissue with flap closure, which can be painful and require a lengthy recovery period.

The advent of Laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery represents a significant advancement in the treatment of pilonidal sinus disease. It utilizes the precision of laser technology to target and remove the diseased tissue with minimal damage to the surrounding healthy skin.

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia and involves the insertion of a fibreoptic laser cable into each sinus tract. The main opening of the sinus tracts on the skin is first widened with a small circular incision of about 4-5mm to facilitate entry of the fibreoptic laser cable and flushed out to clean it of hair and debris, which then allows the cable to be passed down along the tracts.

The laser energy is then precisely directed to vaporize the sinus and any infected tissue as the laser is withdrawn, effectively sealing the wound as it progresses. This minimally invasive approach offers several advantages. Firstly, it reduces post-operative pain and discomfort for patients, allowing for a quicker recovery and earlier return to normal activities. Secondly, it minimizes the risk of infection and recurrence, as the laser energy effectively destroys bacteria within the sinus tract. Additionally, the precision of the laser reduces scarring, leading to better cosmetic outcomes for patients.

Here at The Minster Clinic, while we do offer flap surgery and more traditional techniques of pilonidal sinus surgery, we find that laser assisted pilonidal sinus ablation offers many advantages over traditional approaches, with good success rates, reduced recovery time and improved post-operative comfort for patients.

Lasaer Assisted Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

What is laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery, and how does it differ from traditional surgery? Is laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery suitable for all patients with this condition? What are the benefits of laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery? What is the recovery process like after laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery? Are there any risks or complications associated with laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery?

What is laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery, and how does it differ from traditional surgery?

Laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes laser technology to ablate the affected tissue in pilonidal sinus disease. Unlike traditional surgery, which involves excising the sinus and surrounding tissue, laser surgery uses focused laser energy to vaporize the sinus and infected tissue. This approach is less invasive, leading to reduced pain, shorter recovery times, and improved cosmetic outcomes.

Is laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery suitable for all patients with this condition?

Laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery is generally suitable for patients with uncomplicated pilonidal sinus disease. However, its applicability depends on the specific characteristics of the sinus and the patient's overall health. Mr Sridhar will assess your condition and medical history to determine the most appropriate treatment approach, which could include laser surgery or other methods.

What are the benefits of laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery?

The benefits of laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery include reduced post-operative pain, quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and a lower risk of infection and recurrence.

What is the recovery process like after laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery?

Recovery after laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery is generally faster and less painful than traditional surgery. Patients can typically resume normal activities sooner, although the exact recovery time varies based on the individual and the extent of the procedure. There will be some drainage from the healing sinus tract which eventually dries up after 3-4 weeks. Mr Sridhar will provide specific post-operative instructions, including wound care and activity restrictions, to facilitate a smooth recovery process.

Are there any risks or complications associated with laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery?

While laser-assisted pilonidal sinus surgery is considered safe and effective, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Potential complications may include infection, bleeding, or a reaction to anaesthesia. However, these risks are relatively low, and we will take necessary precautions to minimize them.

Laser-assisted Pilonidal Sinus Surgery price guide *

Procedure	Price guide
Consultation with Ultrasound scan of pilonidal sinus	£195
Laser Assisted Pilonidal Cyst Surgery	From £2000-£2500
Post-surgical 8 week follow-up	Included
Further revision procedure if required	£500

* Costs are determined following assessment of clinical photographs and/or clinical examination. We will endeavour to give you a good idea of costs prior to any appointment

Dominic M

I contacted the Minster Clinic for removal of a sebaceous cyst and was very impressed by the care, professionalism and clinical excellence of the team there.
I was able to immediately book an appointment at a convenient time and underwent both the consultation and the procedure without any delay. Everything was explained clearly, the quality of the materials and environment were first class and the clinical team were reassuring, friendly and efficient. The procedure was completely without complication and the healing process straightforward. I am happy to give the Minster Clinic my warmest recommendations.

Michael M

I am extremely pleased with the treatment I received from Daniel and Sarah Thio. I was a little a bit apprehensive about having a cyst removed from my forehead but I was immediately put at ease by the welcoming attitude. The environment is pleasant and I felt at ease immediately. The procedure itself went perfectly, they talked me through the steps as they performed the procedure and I always knew what was happening. The procedure itself was painless and I am more than happy with the results. The wound has healed up nicely and you can no longer tell I even had a lump in the first place. I would highly recommend the minster clinic to anybody and wouldn’t hesitate in using them again for any further surgical procedures.