CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
Closure of dermal sinus
PROCEDURE TO CLOSE A CONGENITAL CHANNEL IN THE SKIN ALONG THE BASE OF THE SPINE
Closure of your dermal sinus can reduce susceptibility to infection and help symptoms linked to a tethered spinal cord
What is dermal sinus?
A dermal sinus is a congenital condition (formed at birth) where a tract runs along the midline of the body. It can be found anywhere between your tailbone and the root of your nose. If visible, it can appear as a small dimple or opening (sinus), with or without hairs.
Surgery may be advised to close the dermal sinus and prevent or treat associated symptoms including infections.
Need to know
Dermal sinus has been linked to a range of symptoms. It can make you more susceptible to infection, to bladder problems, pains in the legs or spine and neurological issues (disorders of the nervous system). Sometimes there are no symptoms at all. Treatment may be recommended for infants and young children to prevent issues as they grow.
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan will usually be a first step in helping your consultant to find the exact location of the tract. Depending on your circumstances, your consultant may decide to operate to close the dermal sinus or remove the tract completely.
Your consultant will discuss what’s involved, including any risks, and advise you of anything you need to prepare before the procedure.
If there is any infection present, this will need to be treated and resolved before your operation.
If you don’t have an infection, antibiotics may also be given as a precaution to aid your body’s defence during your surgery.
You may be advised to lie on your front in a prone position for one to three days after surgery. Our dedicated care team will be on hand to make sure you are comfortable and to support your recovery while you stay with us.
Your consultant will advise when it’s the right time to return to your normal routine, including work. Physiotherapy may also be recommended. Further MRI scans are often carried out following surgery to monitor the success of your treatment.
Closure of dermal sinus Consultants
Mr Sanjeev Bassi
Neurosurgery
Mr Bassel Zebian
Neurosurgery
Mr Zubair Tahir
Neurosurgery
Mr Noor Ul Owase Jeelani
Neurosurgery
Our Closure of dermal sinus locations
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
Chiswick Outpatients
Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London
The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road SK9 1NY Wilmslow
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.