Pit Picking
A minimally invasive procedure that removes only the midline sinus pits under local anaesthesia - tiny wounds, very fast recovery, and minimal tissue disruption for selected uncomplicated primary pilonidal sinuses.
What is Pit Picking?
Pit Picking removes only the midline pit openings under local anaesthesia using a small circular punch or scalpel. Hair and debris are curetted from the subcutaneous cavity through the pit openings. A small lateral drainage incision may be made if a chronic sinus is present. The procedure is the least invasive of all pilonidal options with the fastest recovery.
Dr. Samhitha Reddy offers pit picking at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad for selected primary, uncomplicated pilonidal sinuses without extensive subcutaneous disease. As part of the best treatment for pilonidal sinus in Hyderabad menu, it suits patients seeking a near-scarless, rapid recovery solution - with return to work in 5-7 days compared to weeks for open excision.
Pit picking is appropriate only for primary pilonidal sinuses with limited subcutaneous extension and no active abscess. For complex, extensive, or recurrent disease, flap procedures achieve better long-term outcomes.
How the Procedure Works
Assessment of Extent
The extent of subcutaneous disease is assessed clinically. Pit picking is selected when pits are limited and the subcutaneous cavity is accessible through the pit openings.
Local Anaesthesia
Local anaesthetic is infiltrated around each pit opening and the subcutaneous cavity. Procedure performed in the prone or lateral position.
Pit Excision
Each midline pit opening is excised with a small (3-5 mm) punch biopsy tool or scalpel - removing the pit epithelium completely.
Cavity Debridement
Hair, debris, and granulation tissue are removed from the subcutaneous cavity through the pit openings by careful curettage.
Wound Dressing
Tiny pit excision wounds are dressed with simple dressings. Patients discharged immediately. Return to work in 5-7 days. Laser hair removal advised from 4 weeks.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Minimal tissue disruption - tiny wounds, no large excision
- →Local anaesthesia only - no general anaesthesia or spinal block
- →Return to work within 5-7 days - fastest recovery of any pilonidal procedure
- →No flap complications - straightforward wound healing
- →Can be repeated if initial treatment does not achieve complete closure
- →Available as an outpatient procedure at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Pit picking is a beautifully minimalist approach to pilonidal sinus - targeting the problem at its origin point with tiny wounds and maximum preservation of normal tissue. For well-selected primary cases, it provides excellent results with truly remarkable recovery.
— Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Pit Picking Procedure Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of the pit picking procedure in Hyderabad depends on the extent of pilonidal disease, the complexity of the condition, investigations required, and the care needed before and after the procedure.
For patients with minimal pilonidal disease, the approximate cost of pit picking ranges between ₹20,000 and ₹40,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Pit Picking | ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, findings during evaluation, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence Pit Picking Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Extent of pilonidal disease: The number of pits, size of the affected area, presence of infection, and recurrence history may influence the treatment approach.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required investigations, clinical examination, and medical assessments before the procedure may affect the overall cost.
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Additional procedures: If procedures such as abscess drainage, removal of infected tissue, or other pilonidal sinus treatments are required, the cost may vary.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, wound care, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is Pit Picking Covered by Insurance?
Pit picking procedure may be covered by health insurance when it is performed for a medically necessary condition. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before the procedure.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Samhitha Reddy
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Proctologist and Colorectal Specialist in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and investigation reports to determine whether pit picking is suitable for you. She will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Samhitha Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.