Comparison of different interval times of Limberg flap reconstruction after pilonidal sinus abscess.

Abstract

Pilonidal disease (PD) is a chronic inflammatory condition located in the natal cleft originating from the subcutaneous hair characterized by sinuses and painful cysts. PD has a wide symptom perspective, presenting different clinical findings and affecting the patient's quality of life in case of frequent recurrences. There is no definite consensus on when definitive treatment should be given after drainage of pilonidal abscess. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the effect of the timing chosen for Limberg flap reconstruction after drainage of pilonidal abscess on the postoperative process and complications. This retrospective study includes patients with Limberg flap reconstruction performed after pilonidal abscess drainage between January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2019 at a private hospital in Adana, Turkey. The patients to whom Limberg flap reconstruction was offered were divided into two groups, according to interval times from the abscess drainage as <4 weeks (Group 1, 100 patients) and >4 weeks (Group 2, 32 patients). Both groups, having a homogeneous distribution in terms of age, gender, and comorbidity, were compared in terms of return to work, complications, and recurrence. There was no statistical difference between the groups in terms of postoperative pain, individual complications, and recurrence (p=0.999). However, the time to return to work was longer in Group 1 (p=0.012). Results suggest that there is no need to wait for a long time for elective surgery after drainage of pilonidal abscess, and that it can be safely performed when the interval time is less than 4 weeks.