Have you noticed an abnormal cyst-like formation in the crease of your buttocks near the tailbone? If so, you might have pilonidal disease in need of immediate treatment. Dr. Murrell is a Los Angeles-based colorectal surgeon specializing in the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of pilonidal cysts.

What is Pilonidal Disease?

Pilonidal disease is the formation of an abnormal pocket or cyst around the tailbone, just above the crease of your buttocks. The cyst usually contains hair and skin debris, and it occurs when hair pushes through the skin and gets lodged inside. In some cases, the pilonidal cyst may become infected and lead to a painful abscess. Pilonidal disease usually affects younger men and individuals who spend long hours sitting down.

Signs & Symptoms of Pilonidal Disease

Swollen cyst-like formation around the tailbone
Pain
Redness of the skin around the cyst
Pus formation within the cyst
Blood draining from an opening on the skin
Foul odors

Causes of Pilonidal Disease

Pilonidal disease usually occurs when a hair follicle pushes through the skin but is forced down due to tight clothing, sitting down for long periods, or other factors. The body treats the hair follicle as a foreign substance and creates a cyst around it, which eventually becomes abscessed. In rare cases, pilonidal disease can also occur in other parts of the body if the same conditions mentioned above are met, i.e., a rising hair follicle being pushed back into the skin.

Treatment of Pilonidal Disease

If you notice any of the signs and symptoms of a pilonidal cyst, even in its earliest stage, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Murrell immediately. Pilonidal cysts don’t go away on their own, may lead to immense pain, and, if left untreated, may increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Dr. Murrell will carefully examine the region to determine if it’s a pilonidal cyst and then remove it during an in-office procedure.

Dr. Murrell will deliver local anesthesia to numb the region, ensuring you have a comfortable experience. Once the region is numb, he’ll make a small incision to drain the cyst. After the cyst is removed, he may leave the wound open or close it with stitches, depending on the likelihood of a recurrence.

Leaving the wound open involves a longer recovery period but a lower risk of recurrence. Dr. Murrell will leave the wound open, pack it with dressing, and allow it to heal naturally from the inside. Closing the wound with stitches will ensure quicker healing but may cause a higher risk of recurrence. If you have a recurrence, you might need more extensive surgery later.

After the surgery, Dr. Murrell will provide detailed recovery guidelines, including precautions, activity limitations, and wound care. Follow his guidelines carefully and contact our office if you notice potential anomalies to the healing process.

Get Relief from Pilonidal Cysts

Dr. Zuri Murrell is an incredibly talented and compassionate colorectal specialist in Los Angeles. He understands that talking about your pilonidal cyst might be embarrassing, so he ensures you feel comfortable at every stage of the process—from consultation to recovery. Give us a call at (323) 310-1137 or schedule an appointment online for your pilonidal cyst treatment with Dr. Murrell today.