[Pilonidal cysts. Excision and intracutaneous absorbable primary suture]

A retrospective survey revealed a shorter stay in hospital for 22 patients with primarily closed wounds than for 38 patients whose wounds were left open to granulate. There were few complications, and the wounds took no longer to heal than those subjected to primary open treatment. A prospective study of closure of wounds where primary conventional suture (n = 10) was compared with intracutaneous absorbable suture (n = 10) showed no difference in the length of stay in hospital or in the rate of complications. Intracutaneous absorbable suture enhances the patient's comfort. No bandage is needed and the patient can take a shower from the first day after operation. Nor are there any stitches to be removed. We recommend intracutaneous absorbable suture for primary closure of wounds.