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A meta-analysis comparing phenol treatment with surgical excision for pilonidal sinus
Xu-Xu Gan1, Peng Liu1, Si-Han Chen1
1Shijiazhuang People's Hospital, China.
Asian Journal of Surgery
|July 7, 2023
Summary
Phenol treatment for pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) shows comparable recurrence rates to surgery but significantly fewer wound complications. This minimally invasive approach offers faster operating times and quicker recovery, making it an effective alternative for PSD management.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) presents a chronic challenge with high recurrence and complication rates.
- Current treatments for PSD lack universal acceptance due to varying outcomes.
- The need for effective, less invasive PSD treatments is critical.
Approach:
- A meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials was conducted to compare phenol treatment with surgical excision for PSD.
- Literature searches were performed across PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library.
- Fourteen publications, including RCTs and non-RCTs, were synthesized for efficacy comparison.
Key Points:
- Phenol treatment demonstrated a non-significant difference in recurrence rates compared to surgical excision (RR = 1.12, P = 0.55).
- Wound complications were significantly lower in the phenol group (RR = 0.40).
- Phenol treatment resulted in shorter operating times, faster return to work, and quicker postoperative healing.
Conclusions:
- Phenol treatment is an effective option for pilonidal sinus disease.
- Its primary advantage lies in a significantly lower incidence of wound complications.
- Phenol treatment offers reduced treatment and recovery times compared to traditional surgery.
