Fibrin glue in the treatment for pilonidal sinus: high patient satisfaction and rapid return to normal activities

Pilonidal sinus is a common condition often managed with invasive surgery associated with a significant morbidity and often a prolonged recovery time. Fibrin glue has been used in our institution as an alternative to conventional surgery. The purpose of this study was to perform a service evaluation of patient satisfaction and recovery following fibrin glue treatment for pilonidal sinus.

All pilonidal glue procedures for a single surgeon were identified from theatre and consultant diary records from March 2007 to September 2011. A questionnaire was sent by post to all patients. Patient satisfaction, time to return to normal activities, the need for further procedures and whether they would recommend a glue procedure to a friend were evaluated.

Ninety-three patients were identified, accounting for a total of 119 glue procedures and 57/93 responses were received (61 %). The median age of respondents was 26 (17-70) years. Seventy-nine per cent (n = 45) were satisfied, pleased or very pleased with the result of their procedure. Fifty-four per cent (n = 31) were back to normal activities within a week with a further 17 % (n = 10) back to normal activities within 2 weeks. Seventy-four per cent (n = 42) required no further treatment. Of the 15 patients requiring a further procedure, 3 went on to have a repeat glue treatment which resulted in complete healing. Eighty-two per cent (n = 47) would recommend a glue procedure to a friend.

Fibrin gluing for pilonidal sinus should be considered as first-line treatment for most pilonidal sinuses. It has a high level of patient satisfaction and allows a rapid return to normal activities in this group of patients of working age.