Complex hidradenitis suppurativa on a background of long‐standing Crohn's disease requiring radical pelvic and perineal reconstruction: A case report

Abstract

Key Clinical Message A surgical MDT approach to high‐complexity surgeries can allow maximal resection in order to achieve disease control and excellent functional outcomes, as demonstrated here for a case of hidradenitis suppurativa in a patient with Crohn's disease. Abstract Hidradenitis suppurativa is an autoimmune disease characterized by abscess and fistula formation with purulent discharge in intertriginous zones, and is associated with inflammatory bowel disease. We present the case of a patient with severe ongoing hidradenitis suppurativa causing osteomyelitis and affecting the perineum, on a background of Crohn's disease previously treated with panprotocolectomy and permanent ileostomy. The hidradenitis suppurativa was having a severe impact on the patient's quality of life, and she had failed to respond to conservative management. The patient opted for a radical two‐step procedure: first her coccyx and sacrum were removed. The second step was a radical bilateral anterior vulvectomy and posterior vaginectomy, with preservation of the uterine body and cervix. An anterolateral thigh flap was used to reconstruct the perineum. This complex procedure required the expertise of multiple surgical specialties, including plastic, general, spinal, and gynecological oncology surgeons to achieve maximal disease resection, minimizing the risk of recurrence.

Keywords

• chronic diseases
• gastroenterology/hepatology
• obstetrics/gynecology
• surgery