About a month ago I had the cyst at the end of my tailbone drained. What was left over was a bump where it used to be, like a lump of fat. I`ve waited this long for the lump to go away, and it hasn`t. I think it`s gotten larger. It feels jelly and it hurts when I press on it. If the cyst returns, will I have to get surgery?
2007-03-23 10:11:54 · 1 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Skin Conditions
Only your doctor and you can make this decision. Unfortunately, pilonidal cysts do have the habit of returning...especially if only an I & D is performed (drainage). So that you are prepared when you see your doctor, here is a brief explanation of the different procedures that he might recommend:
I & D (incision and drainage) cyst is opened, drained and stitched shut. This heals quickly but there is a high incidence of recurrence.
I & D with cyst removal. This is the preferred method since the cyst and hair follicles are removed...less chance of a reoccurence. The main drawback is that you will have an open area that must be packed daily with fresh guaze until healing is complete (can take3 weeks or longer to heal).
Marsupialization involves an I & D, hair and pus is removed. This takes up to 6 weeks to heal and has the lowest rate of recurrence.
2007-03-24 19:01:52 · answer #1 · answered by ilse72 7 · 5⤊ 0⤋