Evaluating the use of fibrin glue in the treatment of pilonidal sinus disease

Abstract

Background Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is frequently encountered in clinical practice affecting the natal clefts of the buttocks and is associated with high morbidity and discomfort. There are various surgical and nonsurgical methods for its treatment. The use of fibrin glue in PSD is relatively new and encouraging results have been reported. This study aimed to evaluate fibrin glue as a primary treatment for PSD. Patients and methods This was a prospective observational study on 54 patients with PSD, who were admitted to our hospital during the period from September 2017 to September 2019. Patients with signs of acute abscess and complicated cases were excluded from this study. Patients had curettage of the sinus with a small Volkmann's spoon; fibrin glue was then injected through the sinus opening to the sinus bed to obliterate the dead space. Results In all, 54 patients were identified, 42 (77.7%) men and 12 (22.3%) women. The mean duration of operative time was 20 min. Thirty-six (66.6%) had returned to normal activities within a week. There were six (11.1%) recurrences after one glue application and had subsequent excision and lateral closure. Conclusion Fibrin glue treatment for pilonidal sinus can be used as a first-line treatment. It is associated with patient satisfaction and rapid return to normal activities.