Pilonidal Disease Laser Therapy: Short Term Results of an Observational Cohort Study

Alferink M, Atmowihardjo L, Smeenk R, Cadanova D and Schouten R

Department of Surgery, Dijklander Hospital, Netherlands Department of Surgery, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Netherlands Department of Surgery, Flevo Hospital, Netherlands

^*Correspondance to: Leila Atmowihardjo 

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Abstract:

Background: Despite known complications and a high recurrence rate, the standard treatment of pilonidal disease still consists of surgical excision of the sinusoidal cyst with primary wound closure. We were the first in the Netherlands to introduce a new treatment technique using a radial laser probe (Sinus Laser-Assisted Closure, SiLaCTM, Biolitec, Germany). During this minimally invasive intervention, the radiation energy delivered via the laser probe obliterates the pilonidal cyst and sinus tract upon retraction of the device. Previous studies have shown encouraging results with respect to safety, patient satisfaction and minimal recurrence rates. Method: We studied the data of our first 50 patients operated with this technique between February 2017 and December 2017 using a prospective database and digital questionnaires. Results: The median follow up duration was 120 days. The initial success rate was 92% (45/50). There were no complications during or after surgery. Mean patient satisfaction was 9.0 (3.0 to 10.0). Thirteen percent of patients did not require any analgesia, 37% used only when needed, of which 32% for less than one week and 10% for one to two weeks. Conclusion: SiLaC is a quick, safe and minimally invasive technique for destruction of the pilonidal cyst and sinus. Success rate and patient satisfaction are high, making this new therapy an attractive option for the majority of the patients with pilonidal disease. Long term results have to be awaited.

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Cite the Article:

Alferink M, Atmowihardjo L, Smeenk R, Cadanova D, Schouten R. Pilonidal Disease Laser Therapy: Short Term Results of an Observational Cohort Study. World J Surg Surgical Res. 2019; 2: 1143..