Pilonidal Disease

I am wondering if your office or anyone you may know in your field are able to work on a pro-bono case?  I am a 26 year old female that has been suffering from pilonidal disease for almost 10 years  and have numerous cysts in my natal cleft area.  I have had it lanced over 25 times and have a full surgery, all with no luck.  The last ER I visited told me I needed to see a plastic surgeon, so here I am.  I am currently unemployed and unable to secure insurance for less than $400 dollars a month.  I am also thinking about going on disability since this is a severe problem that affects my everyday life in a horrible way.  I understand if this office isn't able to help me, but I was wondering if anyone knew of any resources I can look into.  Please.  It's been too long and I just need some help.  Thank you for your time in reading my email.      Sincerely,  Trina Thomas

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Pilonidal cysts are usually treated by general surgeons, not plastic surgeons, although there may be some plastics surgeons who would be willing to excise the area.  Since this is not a cosmetic issue, it may be possible to obtain Medicaid coverage for treatment.  You would need to contact your state's social services department to see if you qualify.  Complete excision of the area with appropriate skin coverage would likely require an outpatient or overnight hospital stay with general anesthesia.