A minimally invasive alternative to traditional excision, in Seattle, Washington
SiLaC® Laser Treatment for Pilonidal Disease
When SiLaC becomes an option
- Primary pilonidal disease with one or a few midline pits
- A defined sinus tract with intermittent drainage or recurrent swelling
- Disease that hasn't yet required major surgery
- A priority on minimizing scarring and downtime
Not every pilonidal cyst should be treated with a laser. More extensive disease, complicated branching tracts, significant lateral involvement, or an active abscess often call for a different approach. Dr. Kratz determines candidacy by anatomy, not by defaulting to the newest option.
How SiLaC works
- The sinus tract is cleaned, hair and inflammatory debris removed
- A thin laser fiber is passed through the tract and laser energy is delivered as it's slowly withdrawn
- The tract contracts and closes gradually as it heals
- Small access points allow drainage instead of one large open wound
Because so little tissue is removed, most patients have less postoperative pain, a faster return to normal activity, and minimal scarring compared with traditional wide excision. If a portion of the sinus persists, selected patients can be treated again with another minimally invasive procedure rather than automatically needing a larger operation.
Your visit
- Outpatient treatment at the surgery center, generally no large incision to close
- Walking the same day, with a gradual return to exercise as healing progresses
- Mild soreness and some drainage during healing, with simple wound care
An acute, painful abscess is drained first if one is present. SiLaC or another approach is considered once the infection is controlled.
What it costs
SiLaC can be billed through your insurance. Our billing team reviews your benefits and gives you your expected cost before your procedure.
Performed by Dr. Kratz, at a surgery center
Common questions
Connected to your care
SiLaC is one option within our full pilonidal disease program, offered when a patient's anatomy is a good fit for a minimally invasive approach. Our Pilonidal Disease page covers the complete range of treatment, from pit picking through surgical excision.
You don't have to keep living with this.
Call or text for a private consultation and a clear plan.