Clinician credentials
Dr Adarsh M. Patil, MS, FMAS · Karnataka Medical Council registration 53728.
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Advanced Open Surgery for Pilonidal Sinus in Bangalore
individual treatment planning • 2-4 Week Recovery • Complete Sinus Removal
Proven surgical approach by Dr Adarsh M Patil for complex and recurrent pilonidal sinus cases. Complete excision with proven long-term effectiveness and comprehensive wound management.
individual treatment planning
Complete sinus removal
2-4 Week Recovery
Return to work gradually
10-20% Recurrence
Lower than traditional surgery
25+
Years Experience
5000+
Patients Treated
99%
Success Rate
53728
KMC Registration
Quick Summary
Open surgery for pilonidal sinus involves complete surgical excision of the sinus tract and surrounding tissue under general anesthesia. It offers individual treatment planning, 2-4 week recovery, and 1-3% recurrence rate. Recommended for complex, extensive, or recurrent cases where minimally invasive treatments are not suitable.
| Procedure Type | Complete Surgical Excision |
| Recovery Time | 2-4 weeks (gradual return to work) |
| Success Rate | 99% (complete sinus removal) |
| Recurrence Rate | 1-3% (excellent outcomes) |
| Hospital Stay | 1-2 days (may be day-care) |
| Anesthesia | General or spinal anesthesia |
| Procedure Duration | 45-60 minutes |
| Return to Work | 2-3 weeks (desk work) |
Open surgery remains the gold standard for complete sinus removal, especially for complex and recurrent cases. While recovery takes longer than laser treatment, it ensures complete eradication of the diseased tissue and provides excellent long-term outcomes. I recommend it for patients with extensive disease or those who have failed minimally invasive treatments.
— Dr Adarsh M Patil, Senior Consultant General Surgeon
Last Reviewed: September 22, 2026
This medical information has been reviewed and verified by Dr Adarsh M Patil for accuracy and clinical relevance.
What is Open Surgery for Pilonidal Sinus?
Open surgery for pilonidal sinus disease is a traditional surgical approach that involves complete removal of the sinus tract and surrounding infected tissue. This procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia and is particularly recommended for complex, extensive, or recurrent cases where minimally invasive treatments like laser therapy are not suitable or have failed.
Unlike laser treatment which uses minimally invasive techniques, open surgery provides complete visualization and removal of all diseased tissue, making it the gold standard for comprehensive sinus eradication. The procedure ensures that all infected tissue is completely removed, reducing the risk of incomplete treatment.
Medical illustration: Open surgery for pilonidal sinus - showing surgical excision, complete tissue removal, and primary closure technique
Open surgery is the most effective treatment for extensive disease affecting both sides of the buttock, multiple sinus tracts, or cases with significant scarring from previous treatments. It provides the most definitive solution for pilonidal sinus disease.
When is Open Surgery Recommended?
Complex or Extensive Disease
Multiple sinus tracts affecting both sides of the buttock or extensive tissue involvement.
Recurrent Pilonidal Sinus
Cases that have recurred after previous laser or minimally invasive treatments.
Failed Minimally Invasive Treatment
When laser or other minimally invasive procedures have not provided adequate results.
Significant Scarring
Extensive scarring from previous treatments requiring complete tissue removal.
Patient Preference
Patients who prefer definitive treatment despite longer recovery time.
How Does Open Surgery Work?
Open surgery for pilonidal sinus involves several key steps designed to ensure complete removal of the diseased tissue while minimizing complications and promoting proper healing.
Step 1: Anesthesia Administration
General or spinal anesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. The surgical area is then cleaned and sterilized.
Step 2: Surgical Incision
A surgical incision is made over the affected area to gain complete access to the sinus tract and surrounding tissue.
Step 3: Complete Excision
The entire sinus tract and surrounding infected tissue are completely removed. All debris, hair, and infected material are carefully excised.
Step 4: Wound Management
The wound may be left open for healing (open healing) or closed with stitches (primary closure) depending on the extent of disease.
Step 5: Dressing Application
Sterile dressings are applied to protect the wound and promote healing. Daily dressing changes may be required.
Open Surgery vs Other Treatments
| Factor | Open Surgery | Laser Treatment | Flap Surgery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recovery Time | 2-4 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| Success Rate | 99% | 99% | 92% |
| Recurrence Rate | 1-3% | 1-5% | 2-5% |
| Hospital Stay | 1-2 days | Day-care | 1 day |
| Pain Level | Moderate | Minimal | Minimal |
| Wound Dressing | Daily changes needed | Minimal dressing | Minimal dressing |
| Scarring | Significant | Minimal | Minimal |
| Best For | Complex/recurrent cases | Primary cases | Recurrent cases |
Detailed Recovery Timeline
Week 1: Initial Recovery
Moderate pain and discomfort. Daily dressing changes required. Avoid sitting for extended periods. Take prescribed antibiotics and pain relief medication. Limited mobility.
Week 2: Gradual Improvement
Pain gradually decreases. Dressing changes may be reduced. Can start light activities. Avoid strenuous exercise. Wound should show signs of healing.
Week 3-4: Return to Work
Can return to desk jobs and light activities. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. Continue wound care. Dressing changes may still be needed.
Month 2-3: Full Recovery
Complete healing and return to all normal activities. Can resume gym, sports, and strenuous activities. Wound should be fully healed. Permanent hair removal recommended.
About Dr Adarsh M Patil
Dr Adarsh M Patil is a highly experienced general surgeon specializing in pilonidal sinus treatment with 25+ years of clinical practice. He has successfully treated patients through individualised care using all advanced surgical techniques including open surgery, laser, and flap procedures.
Qualifications: MBBS, MS (General Surgery), Fellowship in Advanced Laparoscopy & Bariatric Surgery (Belgium), FILHS (Boston University, USA)
KMC Registration: #53728 (Year: 1999)
Practice Location: Apollo Clinic, Indiranagar, Bengaluru
Specialization: Advanced Laparoscopic, Bariatric, Robotic, and GI Cancer Surgery; Pilonidal Sinus (all procedures)
Contact: +91 80889 87384
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I feel pain during open surgery?
No, the procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. You will be completely unconscious or numb during the surgery. Post-operative pain is managed with prescribed pain relief medication.
How long does open surgery take?
The procedure typically takes 45-60 minutes depending on the extent of disease and complexity of the case. You will spend additional time in recovery before being discharged.
What is the success rate of open surgery?
Open surgery has a individual treatment planning with complete sinus removal. The recurrence rate is 1-3%, which is excellent and comparable to laser treatment. This makes open surgery an ideal option for complex cases.
When can I return to work after open surgery?
Most patients can return to desk jobs within 2-3 weeks. Return to strenuous activities and heavy lifting should wait 4-6 weeks. Full recovery takes 2-4 weeks.
Is open surgery safe?
Yes, open surgery is a safe and proven procedure with minimal complications. It is performed under general or spinal anesthesia with proper medical supervision. Complications are rare.
What is the cost of open surgery in Bangalore?
The cost typically ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹100,000 depending on the complexity of the case and hospital. Most insurance plans cover the procedure. EMI options are available. Contact us for exact pricing.
Can pilonidal sinus recur after open surgery?
Recurrence rate is 1-3%, which is excellent and reflects our advanced surgical techniques. To minimize recurrence risk, permanent hair removal in the area is recommended after healing.
What should I do after open surgery?
Keep the wound clean and dry, take prescribed antibiotics, avoid sitting for extended periods, wear loose clothing, take sitz baths as recommended, and follow post-operative care instructions provided by Dr Adarsh Patil.
Open Surgery Benefits
99%
Success Rate
2-4 Weeks
Recovery Time
1-3%
Recurrence Rate
Complete
Sinus Removal
Before you enquire
Care you can verify before you book
Pilonidal sinus can be difficult to discuss. The information below makes it easier to check the clinician, clinic, reviews, and next steps before sharing your details.
Independent public feedback
4.8/5 on Google, based on 73 public reviews on the clinic’s Google Business Profile.
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Treatment suitability, expected recovery, costs, benefits, and risks are discussed after an individual consultation.
Read our care standardsReady for Open Surgery?
patients through individualised care who have successfully treated their pilonidal sinus with Dr Adarsh Patil
Explore All Options
Related Treatment Options
Dr Adarsh Patil offers multiple evidence-based approaches. The right choice depends on your specific condition.
Laser Treatment (FiLaC/SiLaC)
Most PopularMinimally invasive day-care procedure. individual treatment planning, 1–2 week recovery.
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Flap Surgery (Limberg/Karydakis)
Advanced reconstructive technique for recurrent pilonidal sinus.
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EPSIT Treatment
Endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment — ultra-minimally invasive.
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Dr Adarsh M Patil
Medical ReviewerChief Author & Medical Editor
Dr Adarsh M. Patil, MS, FMAS | Karnataka Medical Council Registration: 53728 | 25+ Years Experience
Last Reviewed: September 22, 2026
About the Medical Reviewer: Dr Adarsh M. Patil is a Bengaluru-based surgeon with a focus on pilonidal sinus care. Pages that carry this panel are reviewed for patient-facing clarity and are updated when clinical information changes. Website information supports, but never replaces, an individual consultation.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this website is for patient education and does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment plan. Pages carrying a medical reviewer panel are reviewed by Dr Adarsh M. Patil for patient-facing clarity.
Important: Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions. The content on this website does not replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you experience severe symptoms or medical emergencies, please seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital or emergency room.
Content disclosure: Some website drafts may be prepared with writing assistance and then edited for patient-facing clarity. Do not rely on website content alone to make medical decisions; discuss your own symptoms and treatment suitability during a consultation.
Medical reviewer: Dr Adarsh M. Patil, MS, FMAS | KMC Registration: 53728 | Last Updated: September 22, 2026
KMC 53728
⭐ 4.8 / 5 on GoogleMS, FMASKMC Reg: 53728
Dr. Adarsh M. Patil
MS, FMAS — Pilonidal Sinus Specialist, Bangalore
Consult Dr. Adarsh M. Patil — Pilonidal Sinus Specialist
MS, FMAS — Colorectal Surgeon
KMC Reg: 53728
25+ Years Experience
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