Gluteal V-Y advancement fasciocutaneous flap for treatment of chronic pilonidal sinus disease

Although pilonidal disease is quite common, controversy still exists about the treatment. The procedure should cure the patient, and allow speedy resumption of normal activities by reducing pain and disability. This retrospective study was conducted to evaluate our experience with the V-Y fasciocutaneous advancement flap and to review current publications about flap surgery for the treatment of sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus. We describe the application of the fasciocutaneous V-Y advancement flap for reconstruction of defects after radical excision of recurrent pilonidal sinus in 11 cases. Primary and uneventful wound healing was achieved in all patients but two who developed minor wound breakdown. Large defects after excision can easily be closed using the V-Y advancement flap. This type of flap closure in selected cases offers tension-free, recurrence-free, and reliable skin coverage while flattening the natal cleft that predisposes to recurrences. Reliable flap closure reduces hospital stay, costs, as well as disability and time spent off work.