Prevention
By Mayo Clinic staffTo prevent future pilonidal cysts from developing:
- Clean the area daily with glycerin soap, which tends to be less irritating. Rinse the area thoroughly to remove any soapy residue. Washing briskly with a washcloth helps keep the area free of hair accumulation.
- Keep the area clean and dry. Powders may help, but avoid using oils or herbal remedies.
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time.
References
- Humphries AE, et al. Evaluation and management of pilonidal disease. The Surgical Clinics of North America. 2010;90:113.
- Sullivan DJ, et al. Pilonidal disease. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed March 18, 2010.
- AL-Khamis A, et al. Healing by primary versus secondary intention after surgical treatment for pilonidal sinus. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2010:CD006213.
- Pilonidal disease. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. http://www.fascrs.org/patients/conditions/pilonidal_disease/. Accessed March 16, 2010.
- Bullard Dunn KM, et al. Colon, rectum and anus. In: Brunicardi FC, et al. Schwartz's Principles of Surgery. 9th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=5015668&searchStr=pilonidal+cyst#5015668. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 22, 2010.

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