Comparing crystallized phenol and surgical excision treatments in pilonidal sinus disease

Abstract

Objective: To compare the results of commonly used treatments (Karydakis Flap method and crystallized phenol application) in the treatment of pilonidal sinus. Study Design: Comparative study. Place and Duration of Study: Adana Seyhan State Hospital, Adana City Hospital, and Hisar Intercontinental Hospital Pediatric Surgery Clinic, from January 2016 to December 2020. Methodology: Patients who were treated for pilonidal Sinus and treated with surgical repair (karydakis flap method) and crystallized phenol method were included in the study. The efficacy and complications of both treatments were compared. Results: Of the patients, 111 (34.7%) were treated with surgical repair, and 208 (65.3%) with the crystallized phenol method. Of the patients included in the study, 166 (52%) were male and 153 (48%) were female. The mean age was calculated as 15.5 (± 1.4). The mean hospital stay in the surgery group was 1.6 ± 0.4 days. The mean time to return to school was 2.8 ± 1.02 days in the phenol group and 12.3 ± 2.2 days in the Surgery group. Despite the third session of phenol application, recovery could not be achieved in 12 (5.7%) patients. Among those who had surgery, recurrence occurred in 7 (6.3%) patients and they had to be operated once more. Conclusion: Crystallized Phenol application can be applied in uncomplicated cases due to high success, low complication, rapid recovery, early return to daily activities.