Can an Anal Fistula Heal on Its Own?
Anal fistulas form when an abscess affects the anal area. An anal fistula is a tunnel between the skin of the buttocks and the anal canal. The condition can be painful—but can it heal on its own?
Pilonidal Cyst Surgery
Pilonidal surgery is the most effective treatment for a painful skin and soft tissue infection that commonly develops in the crease of the buttocks.
As a board-certified colorectal surgeon, Lisa Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS, of Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, has expertise in performing pilonidal surgery. Dr. Perryman may recommend surgery when patients have recurring pilonidal disease infections or significant open wounds.
How pilonidal disease develops
Children and adults who develop pilonidal disease tend to have a body shape that includes a deep cleft in the buttocks. Ruptured hair follicles from trauma or pressure can result in chronic infection of the area, which is known as pilonidal disease.
Treating acute pilonidal infection
A painful swelling near the tailbone is often the first sign of pilonidal disease. Dr. Perryman treats an acute pilonidal abscess promptly with surgical drainage. This is an in-office procedure that provides immediate pain relief. Most patients feel much better within a few hours. Dr. Perryman may prescribe antibiotics following a drainage procedure.
Bascom cleft lift surgery
Dr. Perryman performs advanced pilonidal surgery to treat chronic pilonidal disease. Bascom cleft lift surgery is a procedure intended to cure pilonidal disease and prevent it from recurring.
Cleft lift surgery has a low rate of complications when performed by a surgeon experienced in this technique. The surgery, performed in the operating room under general or spinal anesthesia, involves removing the affected tissue and covering the area with healthy tissue.
Dr. Perryman reshapes the patient's cleft to a much shallower buttocks shape to remove the area of the cleft where future infections could occur. To prevent swelling, a small suction drain is placed beneath the skin. When patients return for a postoperative visit a few days after surgery, the drain is removed.
For most patients requiring surgery, we recommend the cleft lift for best results.
Dr. Perryman draws on her experience, expertise, and knowledge to craft an individualized treatment approach for relieving pilonidal disease. When you’re dealing with repeated pilonidal infections, surgery may be the best option.
For an evaluation, and to discuss treatment options, including pilonidal surgery, call or message our Parker, Colorado, center to schedule a visit with Dr. Perryman.
You Might Also Enjoy...
I’ve Been Diagnosed with Anal Warts; Now What?
Anal and genital warts result from HPV infection. Any sexual or skin-to-skin contact in the area around the anus could transmit an HPV strain that causes warts. Treatment depends on location and severity and typically involves topical solutions or surgery.
Chronic Anal Itching: When Should I Consult an Expert?
Anal itching can be embarrassing to talk about. It might not be a big deal if the problem is sporadic, but when it becomes chronic, you’ll want to find a solution, which may mean consulting an expert.
How Recurrent Anal Abscesses Increase Your Risk of Developing a Fistula
Glands inside the anus can sometimes become blocked, creating a painful anal abscess. About 50% of people with an anal abscess will go on to develop an anal fistula. Here’s what you need to know about each condition.
Can Pilonidal Disease Return After Surgery?
Pilonidal disease forms around the tailbone. Treatment often includes drainage or excision surgery. Will that take care of the problem? Maybe. Read on to learn about an approach with a high rate of preventing recurrence.
When Rectal Bleeding Requires Medical Attention
It’s never a good feeling when you discover blood after a bowel movement. It’s a problem that requires investigation, since rectal bleeding has both benign and serious causes.