Pilonidal cyst laser treatment

A coccygeal cyst (also known as a pilonidal sinus) is a subcutaneous cavity that forms in the upper part of the intergluteal fold, in the coccyx area. It resembles a channel in the subcutaneous tissue, lined with epithelial cells.

The prerequisites for the development of a coccygeal cyst are laid during fetal development, when a cavity may form in the intergluteal fold. Over time, dead skin cells, secretions from sweat and sebaceous glands, and even hair can enter this cavity. The accumulated fluid may become inflamed, and the coccygeal cyst can progress into a fistula.

Several factors contribute to the formation of a pilonidal sinus:

• Sedentary lifestyle;

• Excess body weight;

• Dense body hair;

• Coccygeal trauma;

• Excessive sweating;

• Hypothermia;

• Infections;

• Weakened immune system;

• Wearing tight-fitting underwear.

The condition is most often diagnosed in men under the age of 30, although isolated cases have been reported in women.

Patients with a pilonidal sinus most commonly report:

• Pain while sitting;

• Discomfort or a sensation of a foreign body;

• Swelling in the coccyx area.

A non-inflamed coccygeal cyst appears as a small opening along the gluteal cleft, typically located 7–10 cm from the anus. The tract can be shallow or quite deep, resembling a small funnel.

When the cyst becomes inflamed, pain intensifies, the skin above it becomes red and swollen, and pus may begin to discharge through one or more openings. If inflammation recurs, new drainage holes may appear, discharging infiltrate.

The pus from the inflamed cyst gradually expands and destroys the tract, damaging the surrounding tissue.

It’s important to understand that once a cyst has become inflamed, it is likely to continue flaring up in the future — with each recurrence becoming more severe. The simplest and most effective approach is to treat the cyst when it is not inflamed or during remission.

To diagnose the condition, a proctologist usually only needs to perform a physical examination. Treatment is then prescribed, and in the case of a coccygeal cyst, surgery is the only effective method. Other treatment options are less effective or completely ineffective.

Previously, the cyst was removed using a scalpel to excise it. Today, a more effective, simpler, and gentler solution is available — laser removal of the coccygeal cyst.

Benefits of Laser Coccygeal Cyst Removal

Laser treatment offers several advantages:

• Short recovery period – due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure;

• Minimal risk of infection – as the laser immediately coagulates tissue upon contact;

• Low recurrence rate compared to traditional excision.

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis — the patient goes home the same day. Local anesthesia is typically used, but sedation (medicated sleep) is also available if needed.

Thanks to the absence of large incisions, the recovery period after laser treatment is much faster and easier than after traditional surgery.

After the procedure, patients can:

• Leave the clinic within a few hours;

• Sit comfortably the same day;

• Shower after 2–3 days;

• Resume sports in 7–15 days;

• Avoid taking medical leave and maintain a normal lifestyle.

To ensure proper healing, the surgeon may recommend changing dressings for a few days and using special ointments. A follow-up examination is typically scheduled 1–2 weeks later.

To learn more about laser removal of a coccygeal cyst or to schedule a consultation with a proctologist, call our contact center or submit a request through our website.