The idea of sending information back and forth in preparation for a consultation or surgery may seem new and strange – but the instant communication allowed by the internet has made this a very useful way for us to communicate with patients from outside of our local area.
The main goal of this is to prevent patients from traveling a great distance to see Dr Immerman in situations where surgery is ultimately not needed. We’ve developed a system where we can collect the information we need by email and have patients come in all ready for their consultation and surgery on the same day.
Fortunately, with pilonidal disease all the information that Dr Immerman needs can be obtained by a medical history and some photos of the gluteal area. The better the photos are, the better he can know what you need done.
(1) an image of the entire buttock area when standing. This shows how deep the gluteal crease is in your resting position.
(2) an image of the gluteal crease spread apart so he can see the base of the crease. Make sure whatever problems you have are visible. This can include pits, bumps, discoloration, open wounds or sinus tract openings. It is usually necessary to completely remove pants and underwear to allow the legs to be spread apart so that we can visualize this area.
(3) IMPORTANT: If there are openings near the anus, separate photos will be necessary to demonstrate that area. It is important that we can see the relationship between the lowermost opening and the anus. It is usually necessary to completely remove pants and underwear to allow the legs to be spread apart so that we can visualize this area.
(4) If you have hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), pyoderma gangrenosum, psoriasis, morphia, or any other kind of skin problem, send us photos of the affected areas. For HS this usually would mean photos of the armpits and groins.
Above is an example of good photos. Having good lighting helps, and the best photos are usually taken by someone else.
Of course, it is up to you to agree to send these photos. We will provide you with a HIPAA compliant email to use to send them. We have found this to be an invaluable tool in speeding up the consultation process, but if you are not comfortable with this, the next option would be to come see Dr. Immerman for an in-person consultation.
Also, if you are planning a visit to us, please fill out and return the Medical History Form, Patient Registration Information, and insurance assignment form, and return it to us by mail or email before your visit. You can download these forms by following this link.