Recurrent pilonidal sinus disease: medium-term outcome after Karydakis flap procedure

Abstract

Background Failure of surgery for pilonidal sinus results in substantial burden on the patient and the surgeon. Hence, in this study we address the role of Karydakis flap procedure in recurrent cases. Patients and methods Ninety-two patients with recurrent pilonidal disease were managed by Karydakis flap procedure on a day-case basis. Data collected included demographics, operative time, wound complications, time taken to return to work, and recurrence. Results There were 80 men and 12 women in this study. The mean age of the patients was 33±10 years. The mean duration of illness was 22±12.8 months. The mean operative time was 42.3±10?min. Patients were followed up for a mean duration of 39.7±13.6 months. Postoperative wound seroma occurred in 15 (16.3%) cases, partial disruption in eight (8.9%) cases, hematoma in six (6.5%) cases, and wound infection in two (2.2%) cases. Only one patient has had recurrence of the disease so far. Conclusion Karydakis flap is a safe and effective treatment modality in these patients given its short operative time, excellent cosmetic appearance, low recurrence and morbidity rates, short learning curve, and rapid return to daily activities.