Rhomboid excision and Limberg flap for managing pilonidal sinus: long-term results in 411 patients

Abstract

Objective To investigate the results of rhomboid excision and the Limberg flap procedure to treat pilonidal sinus disease. Method The records of 411 patients with pilonidal sinus disease, who underwent rhomboid excision and Limberg flap procedure, were analysed. All sinus tracks were resected en bloc, and a Limberg flap was prepared from left or right gluteal region. A suction drain was routinely used. Results The mean follow-up period was 109.2 +/- 4.5 months (range: 12-183 months). Recurrence occurred in 12 (2.91%) patients who were all male. In 42 (10.21%) patients, anaesthesia or hypoaesthesia of the upper portion of the flap occurred; this was temporary in 25 patients. Twelve (2.91%) patients developed a seroma and 15 (3.64%) a wound infection. The average hospital stay was 3.2 days (range: 1-10 days), and the average time of return to work was 12.4 days (range: 7-18 days). The average time to walk without pain was 13.4 days (range: 10-28 days) and the average time to sitting on the toilet without pain was 16.1 days (range: 12-28 days). Conclusion The Limberg flap procedure is effective and has a low complication rate, short time for returning to normal activity and short hospitalization.