Comparison of Karydakis flap reconstruction versus primary midline closure in sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease: Results of 200 military service members

Purpose There is a high incidence of sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease (SPD) among young males. Despite increasing data on the treatment of SPD, no standard treatment has yet been established. The goal of this study was to compare the Karydakis flap reconstruction with a primary midline closure (PMC) in the treatment of patients with SPD. Methods The study included 200 patients treated over a period of 30 months. After a power analysis, the study was run on a two-directional basis (both retrospective reviews of patient charts and a telephone interview for prospective evaluation). The surgical findings, complications, recurrence rates, and degree of satisfaction based on a questionnaire were assessed. Results The duration of the surgery was longer in the Karydakis group. Complications were more frequently seen in the PMC group. The recurrence rate was 4.6% for the Karydakis group and 18.4% for the PMC group. Of patients who underwent the Karydakis operation, 70.8% were completely satisfied with the procedure, while only 32.6% of patients who underwent the PMC reported excellent satisfaction. A significantly higher number of patients in the Karydakis group recommended the same procedure to other patients with SPD. Conclusion The Karydakis method may be a preferable option in the treatment of SPD, due to the low rate of recurrence and the promising satisfaction rates.