PILONIDAL SINUS

USE OF LIMBERG FLAP IN THE TREATMENT

Abstract

Background: Pilonidal sinus is a common chronic disease of the
sacrococcygeal region. The treatment for a pilonidal sinus varies according to the clinical presentation of the disease.
Although many surgical methods have been suggested, an ideal method is still lacking because of high recurrence
rates. Setting: Surgical Unit-II, Allied Hospital, PMC, Faisalabad. Material and Methods: This prospective study
includes 30 patients who were treated with the use of a rhomboid excision and Limberg flap closure for chronic and
recurrent sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus. The follow-up period ranged from 04 to 08 months. Results: The mean
hospital stay was 03 days (range, 03-08 days) and the mean time to return to work was 15 days (range, 12-26 days).
Early wound complications were encountered in 03 patients. No recurrence was noted on maximum of 08 months of
follow-up. Nine patients had numbness at the operation site and 10% were not pleased with cosmetic appearance of
the scars. Conclusions: The results favor rhomboid excision and Limberg flap closure in the treatment of
sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus, especially in recurrent cases and in patients with extensive involvement. Low recurrence
rates, shorter hospital stay, and time off from work may outweigh the disadvantages related to unfavorable cosmetic
appearance.