If you’ve noticed a small red lump near the top of your buttock cleft — especially if there’s a strand poking out of it — you might be wondering, what on earth is that? That dark bit you’re seeing is actually a tuft of hair, sitting in the opening of a pilonidal sinus (that’s theContinue reading “What is that dark thing protruding from the lump above my Buttock Crack?”
There is a silent medical epidemic unfolding in exam rooms, urgent care clinics, and operating theaters across the world—one that leaves teenagers and young adults suffering for months, sometimes years, often subjected to the wrong procedures again and again. Few have heard of this condition. Even fewer physicians know how to treat it effectively. It’sContinue reading “A Hidden Surgical Epidemic: Pilonidal Disease and the Failure of Modern Medicine”
Breaking the Myths and Raising Awareness When most people hear about pilonidal disease, they often picture young men as the typical patients. While it’s true that pilonidal disease is slightly more common in males, many are surprised to learn that a significant portion of those affected are women. In my practice, women account for nearlyContinue reading “Pilonidal Disease in Women”
Experience Leads to a CURE! Not all pilonidal surgeries are created equal. Unfortunately, many patients with pilonidal disease are sent to practices where surgeons perform outdated operations with high recurrence rates—and the results can be devastating. A failed surgery can mean more pain, more time away from life, and even more surgeries in the future.Continue reading “Pilonidal Surgery Outcomes: Why Tracking Matters”
A Common and Avoidable Tragedy I recently operated on a 22-year-old male from the Southeast who had suffered from pilonidal disease for the past five years. Frustrated with ongoing pain and infections, he decided in early 2023 that it was time for surgery. His surgeon presented him with a choice: a temporary fix or aContinue reading “A Failed Rhomboid Flap for a Pilonidal Cyst”
Founder of The Sternberg Clinic of San Francisco Meet Dr. Jeffrey Sternberg, MD – A Leading Expert in Pilonidal Disease Dr. Jeffrey Sternberg, MD, is a highly respected colorectal surgeon based in San Francisco, California. He is internationally recognized for his expertise in pilonidal disease. He has played a pivotal role in advancing surgical techniquesContinue reading “About Dr. Jeffrey Sternberg, MD, FACS, FASCRS”
A Journey Through the Healthcare Maze Imagine being a healthy 27-year-old male, living life as usual, when one day, a small bump appears near the tailbone. It grows bigger, becomes painful, and makes sitting uncomfortable. What seems like a minor issue soon spirals into a long, frustrating medical ordeal filled with failed treatments, misguided advice,Continue reading “A Tale of Improper Pilonidal Care: The Fog of Confusion”
Why the Cleft Lift Procedure/Pilonidal RAF (rotation and advancement flap) Should and Will Be the Gold Standard for Pilonidal Disease Pilonidal disease can feel like a never-ending battle. Many patients endure painful flare-ups, failed surgeries, and a constant worry that their condition will come back. But here’s the good news: with the right surgeon andContinue reading “The Procedure With a Near 100% Cure Rate”
IntroductionFor many pilonidal disease patients, the battle doesn’t end with their first surgery. Recurrence is a devastatingly common issue, leaving individuals frustrated, in pain, and often feeling hopeless. But why do pilonidal surgeries fail so frequently? And more importantly, how can you ensure that your subsequent surgery is your last? At The Sternberg Clinic, weContinue reading “Avoiding the Recurrence Trap”
Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating (and sometimes quirky) world of pilonidal disease and surgery. If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re curious about pilonidal care, looking for answers, or maybe just trying to figure out how to pronounce “pilonidal.” (Hint: It’s “pie-luh-nigh-dull.”) Hi, I am Dr. Jeffrey Sternberg For those ofContinue reading “Welcome to the Inaugural Post of The Sternberg Clinic Weekly Blog!”
