Pilonidal sinus

A pilonidal sinus is a dimple in the skin in the crease of your child's buttocks.

• This may be noted at birth as a depression or hairy dimple and be present for many years without any symptoms.
• A pilonidal sinus may also occur due to a blockage in the hair follicles, often associated with an ingrown hair.
• In both situations, hair acts as a foreign body, which may produce an infection. The infection may spread into the tissues of your child's buttocks and produce an abscess (collection of pus under the skin) at a site several inches away from the sinus.

Kid-friendly care

Boston Children's Hospital provides special surgical care in a family-centered environment that children need. Our caring, compassionate and child-friendly surgical team includes expert pediatric surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and assistive personnel, all extensively trained and experienced in pediatric surgical care.