Sinus laser-assisted closure for pilonidal sinus disease: a prospective single-center study

Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a chronic condition that primarily affects young adults. Sinus laser-assisted closure (SiLaC) has recently emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgery, offering potential benefits in postoperative recovery and recurrence rates. This study evaluates the clinical outcomes, safety, and patient satisfaction associated with SiLaC.

We conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 218 consecutive patients who underwent SiLaC for PSD between February 2023 and December 2024. Demographic characteristics, intraoperative parameters, postoperative complications, healing rates, and recurrence rates were examined. Pain and patient satisfaction were assessed using a standardized questionnaire.

The study cohort included 142 male patients (65.1%), with a mean age of 25.3±8.1 years. The mean operative time was 13.4±4.4 minutes, and all patients were discharged the same day. The overall complication rate was 15.1%, with most complications being minor abscesses (84.8% managed conservatively). Healing rates at 15, 30, and 45 days were 13.8%, 80.2%, and 98.1%, respectively, with a mean healing time of 26.1±9.8 days. Recurrence was observed in 8.7% of patients after a median follow-up of 11 months (range, 3-25 months), decreasing to 6.5% following a second SiLaC procedure. The mean pain score on postoperative day 1 was 2.8±2.4, and patient satisfaction at 30 days was 9.2 out of 10.

SiLaC is a safe, effective, and well-tolerated minimally invasive treatment for PSD, associated with favorable short-term outcomes, rapid recovery, and low recurrence rates. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and assess long-term outcomes.