Pilonidal Cyst Drainage: What to Expect & How It's Done

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
i have a cyst on my butt and i have to get it drained. Can you tell me all about that, and how excatly they do it? And also, and anything else i may need to know. Thanks,
Casey

ANSWER: Hi Casey!

First of all, is it a boil or a pilonidal cyst (on the tailbone)?  If you let me know what exactly is going on, I will be happy to tell you all about it

Andrea

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: it is a  pilonidal cyst.

Answer
Hi Casey!

Thank you for clarifying for me.

A pilonidal cyst is an infection, almost always on the tailbone, right at the crease of the buttocks.  Usually it is either an infected hair follicle, or a hair that has fallen into a cyst.   The area becomes inflamed and an infection sometimes ensues.

As you are probably aware, they can be very painful.

There are contributing factors to make someone more prone to pilonidal cysts:  obesity, being male, having more hair in that area, being under the age of 40, sitting a lot, sedentary lifestyle, people who sweat more than others, poor hygiene.  

Treatment may be as small as taking a course of antibiotics, or having surgery to remove the cyst.  Often, a cyst will be drained and have packing applied.  This packing has to be changed frequently, and if surgery done, dressings have to be changed.  It may take up to a year to heal completely for more severe cases.  

It is very important from now on to keep the area clean, shave if there is hair back there, get up and move about frequently.

I hope this answered your question.  If it did not, please don't hesitate to let me know, Casey.

Best wishes,

Andrea