Comparison between two methods of excision and primary closure of pilonidal sinus

Background: Controversy still exists about the best surgical method for the treatment of pilonidal sinus. The aim of this study was to compare two methods of excision and primary closure. Methods: One hundred and seventy-three patients with pilonidal sinus, 119 (69%) men and 54 (31%) women, and a mean age of 23.3±7.5 yrs and divided into two Groups of A (electrocautery) and B (excision) for the removal of pilonidal sinus. Wound complications, hospital stay, times to heal, return to work, patient’s comfort and recurrence rate were recorded for the two groups. The postoperative follow-up was 6 months. Results: All patients were able to resume their normal lives and activities 7-9 days after the operation. Wound infection and recurrence rate were significantly (P<0.05) less prevalent in Group A (5% and 3.8%) than in Group B (1% and 0%). There was no significant difference between two groups in regard to hospital stay, time to heal, time to return to work and patients’ comfort after 6 months of follow-up. Conclusions: The use of electrocautery at the base of the wound is not recommended because it may obscure the exact extent of the pilonidal sinus and increase the rate of recurrences