PILONIDAL CYST

Pilonidal Cyst Treatment: Traditional Surgery vs. SiLaC Laser Method

What is a pilonidal cyst?

A pilonidal cyst is a small cavity under the skin, usually located in the upper part of the gluteal cleft. It forms around ingrown hairs and leads to local inflammation. It commonly affects young adults, especially men with dense body hair.

Symptoms

The cyst may be asymptomatic or cause pain, redness, purulent discharge, and sometimes fever if infected.

Antibiotic treatment

Antibiotics may temporarily relieve symptoms, but the cyst will likely return unless it is completely removed or destroyed.

Traditional surgery

This method involves removing the cyst and its tracts down to the bone if needed. Performed as an outpatient procedure, it requires daily wound care for several weeks. It is recommended for infected or recurrent cysts. Healing is definitive but can be slow.

SiLaC laser treatment

The SiLaC method is a minimally invasive alternative. After cleaning the sinus tracts, a laser fiber is inserted to thermally destroy the inner lining. The procedure is quick, less painful, and allows faster return to normal activity. It is best suited for simple, non-infected cases.

Comparison

Traditional surgery: more invasive, longer healing, reimbursed, low recurrence rate.
SiLaC laser: minimally invasive, less pain, faster healing, not reimbursed, slightly higher recurrence.

Conclusion

The best option depends on the cyst’s complexity, infection status, and patient preference. Dr. Bruto Randone offers both techniques after an in-depth consultation.

♦ To make an appointment with Dr. Bruto RANDONE, an ENGLISH SPEAKING Visceral and Digestive Surgeon, at the Clinique Internationale du Parc Monceau, 21 Rue de Chazelles, 75017 Paris, France, click on Contact.