Publication:

Evaluation of open versus closed pilonidal sinus excision in Basrah, Iraq

Background Pilonidal sinus is a disease that most commonly arises in the hair follicles of the natal cleft of the sacrococcygeal area. Different modalities of surgery have been employed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcome of open versus closed pilonidal sinus excision among a sample of patient in Basrah of Iraq.

Methods This is a prospective study conducted in two hospitals. The patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups. Group “A” consisted of 63 patients who underwent open pilonidal sinus excision and the other group (group “B”) included 68 patients who underwent closed pilonidal sinus excision. Technically, both approaches were performed according to the "standard procedure". All patients, in both groups, were seen on the 3rd, 7th and 10th days following surgery. Afterwards, they were followed up at weekly intervals until complete healing took place and three-monthly after that, for 2 years, to check for recurrence.

Results One hundred and thirty-one patients include in this study, 63 patients comprised group “A” open pilonidal sinus excision (54 males and 9 females) compared to 68 patients in group “B” closed pilonidal sinus excision (56 males and 12 females). The rate of wound infection approximately was similar (3.17% in group “A” and 2.94% in group “B”) two patients in both groups.

Conclusions This study shows significant difference in patient duration needed to retain normal life activity between open and closed method. Closed method achieved shorter duration of recovery.