I have not posted for several years so this is an update.
I developed this disease 44 years ago. Over the decades I tried multiple approaches. First was the simple lancing. Life was good for two years. It returned and I tried a closed surgery. Everything was cleaned out and I was stitched up. All was well for about five years then the infection returned and the pain and the overall agony.
We then tried the open surgery. No stitches, just let it heal form the bottom with the “help” of silver nitrate. It did not work. Finally my Doctors said there was no more they could do for me. I still had the hole in my rear draining every day and that was how they left me. It eventually healed over and all was good for about ten years. Then the infection burst out again. i treated it with home remedies, and just lived with it the best I could. It was ugly but there was no choice.
About eight years ago my family Doctor told me about Bascom’s cleft surgery. Tom and his Father inspected me and felt I was a good candidate for the practice. I had it done. Recovery was easy and simple at home. One follow-up appointment and I was cleared for all physical activities. Bike riding. Horse riding. Golf, Mountain Climbing. The works. I did them all.
I am pleased to say I have had no pain, no discomfort, no infection, and zero problems for eight years. I hesitate to use the word “cured” but I feel as though it will never return. OK I will say it. I am cured. Eight years with zero symptoms. If you are a candidate for this surgery do it. Do not put it off. You do not need to live with pain, chronic infection, fouling of underwear, carrying a seat cushion, soaking in hot water, and sacrificing much that give you joy. I was there. I did all of that for more than three decades.
There is hope out there for even the worst of cases. Good luck everyone.