Pilonidal Disease

.Pilonidal disease

This is a common condition which typically afflicts patients between the ages of 15-45, with men being affected 2-4 times more often than women. Theories to its causes have varied over the years, but the most agreed-upon concept has at its basis the gluteal cleft. As the skin stretches over the cleft with sitting and standing small breaks occur which allow sharp hairs to embed under the skin. The hairs get drawn deeper into the tissue by negative pressure, creating tracts (sinuses or “pits”). These can collect debris and more hair creating a cyst, which can then become infected, creating an abscess. Chronic infection and inflammation can develop, creating persistent drainage and discomfort.

The treatment of pilonidal disease is varied and depends on the severity of presentation. Treatments can include a period of antibiotics, incision and drainage, excision and packing, sinus tract excision (“pit picking”, and rotation flaps (eg the Bascom Cleft Lift”). An excellent online resource for patients is the Pilonidal Support Alliance, found here.

Several of our surgeons (Drs. Cowie, Goodwin & Lord) have trained in the Bascom Cleft Lift Procedure with Dr Bascom, and have a lengthy experience in providing this operation to appropriate patients.

We also are the first institution in North America to be able to offer our patients the minimally invasive Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Tract Surgery (EPSiT) or as it is otherwise known, Video Assisted Ablation of Pilonidal Sinus (VAAPS).

If you are from outside British Columbia, including the United States, and are interested in being considered for a Bascom cleft lift procedure please complete this form to begin the process and ask your family doctor to send it along with a referral. Note that surgery for non-BC residents is performed at a non-hospital facility and fees apply.