Research and practice priorities in pilonidal sinus disease: a consensus from the PITSTOP study.

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Clinical Research Methodology
• Health Policy

Background:

• Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a prevalent condition with limited guiding literature for optimal management.
• The PITSTOP study aimed to address this gap by identifying critical policy and research priorities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish consensus on policy and research priorities for pilonidal sinus disease.
• To provide direction for clinical practice and future scientific inquiry in the field.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach including a 'So what, now what' exercise and a three-round online Delphi study.
• Participant consensus was achieved through iterative ranking and a final face-to-face meeting with weighted voting.

Main Results:

• Generation of 14 research and 19 policy statements from initial focus groups.
• Consensus reached on 15 policy statements (treatment strategies, surgeon training, classification, return to work) and 19 research statements (trial design, methodology, specific questions).

Conclusions:

• The study successfully identified crucial research and policy priorities for pilonidal sinus disease.
• These priorities are relevant to both patients and clinicians, offering a roadmap for improved practice and future research endeavors.