What should you do if your Pilonidal Cyst Excision surgery fails?

Handling the situation of the pilonidal cyst may be hard and painful sometimes. When the conservative approaches fail to provide any relief to the patients, then pilonidal cyst excision is taken as the definitive option in this case. While the surgery is successful, what if things go the wrong way? Here, we will take a look at choices if you have a pilonidal cyst excision surgery that does not work and offer advice on how to move forward.

We know as a patient you will feel very bad and some may even think that choosing surgery was the worst decision, but this is not the truth. Several factors collectively contribute to making the pilonidal cyst surgery a success and if you miss even a single step, things will not go as you may have thought. So, before you feel confused, you must read the reasons that are behind this issue and how you can save yourself from such an incident. 

Reasons that contribute to the failure of Pilonidal Cyst Excision Surgery 

All these points will clear yoru mind and give you a complete insight into what happens outside as well as inside the operation theatre and how you may end up in a difficult situation like this. 

• Understand the Reasons for Failure:

Before we consider other treatment choices, your doctor has to know the reason behind your pilonidal cyst excision surgery not working properly. Several factors cause surgical failure, for example, the incomplete removal of cysts or the recurrence of the cyst for such reasons as hair follicle irritation or infection. The possibilities of postoperative complications must be also taken into consideration. During your conversation with your physician on the causes of surgical failure in your circumstances, you will be able to get the exact reason for surgical failure in your case.

• Seek Evaluation by a Specialist:

If you are doubtful that your pilonidal cyst excision surgery has been ineffective or you have such clearness after the surgery that there is pain, swelling, and drainage you should be evaluated by a specialist. If you encounter treatment failure, a colon surgeon or wound care specialist can complete the assessment, make a physical exam, do diagnostic tests such as imaging and culture, and order them to identify the disease.

• Consider Revision Surgery:

In the circumstances where the aftermaths of the first Pilonidal cyst excision steps do not yield the expected result of the removal, further revision surgery may be required. Revision surgery is another possibility, which requires a second excision of the cyst and the surrounding tissue to ensure complete removal and proper healing. Removal of the cyst reduces the risk of discomfort and improves the likelihood of healing naturally. Apart from sutures, your surgeon may also talk to you about different techniques such as flap closure or laser treatment which will improve the result and reduce the risk of a resurge.

• Explore Non-Surgical Treatment Options:

In some cases, non-surgical treatment options may be considered if revision surgery is not possible or if you want to consider other ways of treatment. Non-surgical therapies available for pilonidal cysts consist of antibiotic treatment to eliminate infection, corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation and pain, or minimally invasive procedures (like drainage or laser therapy) to provide relief.

• Focus on Wound Care and Healing:

Regardless of which treatment option is selected, appropriate wound care and management need to be provided to promote healing and prevent complications from happening. Adhere to the wound care instructions of your healthcare service provider, which include keeping the surgical site clean and dry, changing dressings frequently, and avoiding strenuous activities that put a strain on the wound. Being healthy by observing the appropriate diet and not smoking will speed up the recovery.

• Communicate Openly with Your Healthcare Team:

Communicating with your healthcare team is one of the most pivotal moments of your treatment. Try to establish positive relationships with your physician in which you communicate openly about your symptoms, concerns, and treatment options, and avoid the shyness of asking your doctor questions to make sure that you are fully aware of your disease and the treatment options that are effective for it. In addition, the health care officer will play a crucial role in guiding you on the best way to conquer the problems that are associated with a failed removal surgery of the pilonidal cyst and let you know the Pilonidal cyst surgery recovery time. 

Wrapping Up:

Finally, an unsuccessful pilonidal cyst excision surgery can be discouraging, but there are possibilities to solve that issue appropriately. Through the doctor’s examination, revision surgery, or non-surgical treatment options, optimal wound care, and healing and through maintaining open communication with your health team you can take proactive steps to help you with your condition. 

Keep in mind that you have the company of your healthcare provider who is there to help you walk through the journey even when it’s challenging. They know such things might happen and they will discuss everything with you before starting the treatment. The only thing that you must take care of is to find the right doctor for this treatment.