Surgical Interventions in Advanced Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Systematic Review

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disorder affecting intertriginous areas, frequently leading to painful nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, and scarring. In patients with moderate-to-severe disease (Hurley Stages II and III), surgical intervention is frequently required to achieve durable disease control.

To compare and evaluate the surgical interventions employed in Hurley Stage II and III HS by evaluating recurrence rates, postoperative complications, and patient-centred outcomes across different operative modalities.

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE and EMBASE identified studies reporting surgical outcomes in Hurley Stage II and III HS. English-language studies describing postoperative recurrence, complications, and patient-centred outcomes stratified by surgical intervention were included. Of 647 studies screened, 136 studies were included.

A total of 136 studies were included (5,646 procedures). Primary closure had the highest recurrence (38.0%) and complication rates (29.4%). Wide excision (n = 1923) showed moderate recurrence (17.2%) and the highest cosmetic dissatisfaction. Laser-assisted surgery had the lowest complication rate (2.2%) and recurrence rate (5.7%). Flaps and grafts showed higher complication rates but fewer recurrences than primary closure.

Surgical outcomes in advanced HS vary by intervention. Primary closure is associated with the highest rates of recurrence and complications, while wide excision and laser-assisted surgery may offer improved disease control. These findings support individualized surgical planning in Stage II and III HS.