Comparison of the V-Y Flap and Limberg Flap Operations in Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

Abstract

Aim:The aim of this study was to compare the advantages of V-Y flap and Limberg flap techniques in the surgical management of complicated pilonidal sinus disease requiring extensive excision, and to review the superiorities of each other in the light of the literature.Method:The study included 100 patients who were hospitalized with the diagnosis of pilonidal sinus disease and who were planned to undergo flap reconstruction due to the diameter of the defect. Patients were randomly divided into two groups as A and B. Fifty patients in group A underwent V-Y flap and 50 patients in group B underwent Limberg flap. Both groups were prospectively followed-up in terms of complications, recovery times, workforce losses, patient satisfaction and 2-year recurrence rates, and the findings were compared statistically.Results:Demographic characteristics, complaints and clinical findings of both groups were similar. Although postoperative wound infection rates were similar (26% vs. 28%; p>0.05), wound dehiscence was more common in the Limberg group (36% vs. 26%; p<0.05). The wound healing process and workforce losses were longer in the Limberg flap group, but the differences were not statistically significant. There were no differences between the groups in terms of patient satisfaction and recurrence in the 2-year follow-up period.Conclusion:The long-term recurrence rates of V-Y flap and Limberg flap techniques are similar. Wound dehiscence is significantly less in V-Y flap technique. According to the results of this study, V-Y flap method following extensive tissue loss due to excision can be considered as a good alternative.

Keywords

• Pilonidal sinus
• Limberg flap
• V-Y flap