Evaluation of laser ablation for recurrent pilonidal sinus disease: treatment success, recurrence rates, and patient outcomes.

PURPOSE

Pilonidal sinus disease (PD) is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory condition primarily affecting the sacrococcygeal region, often resulting in discomfort, abscess formation, and recurrent disease. Various surgical interventions, including laser ablation, have been employed to treat recurrent PD. This study evaluates the efficacy of laser ablation in patients with recurrent PD, focusing on treatment success, recurrence rates, complications, and recovery outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 37 patients with recurrent pilonidal sinus disease treated with laser ablation between January 2022 and January 2025 was conducted. Preoperative data, postoperative complications, healing time, Visual Analog Scale values, and return to normal activities were collected.

RESULTS

The results showed that 70.3% of patients achieved complete healing without recurrence, while 21.6% experienced recurrence within a mean follow-up of 9.6 months. Five patients (13.5%) developed superficial infections, which were managed with local dressing. The median time for wound healing was 35 days, and patients returned to normal activities in an median of 1 day. Persistent disease was observed in 8 patients (21.6%), of whom 5 patients (62.5%) achieved full epithelialization after retreatment with laser ablation.

CONCLUSION

The ease of application, avoidance of hospitalization, minimal postoperative care, and rapid return to daily activities make laser treatment a safe and effective therapeutic option for patients with recurrent pilonidal disease, supported by favorable outcomes and low morbidity.