Limberg flap procedure for pilonidal sinus: Retrospective study from a tertiary care center

Abstract Background Pilonidal sinus, a chronic condition affecting the natal cleft, commonly afflicts adults in their second to third decades, with significant socioeconomic implications. Various management approaches exist, but dissatisfaction and recurrence rates persist. The Limberg flap procedure, aiming to flatten the intergluteal sulcus, is promising. This study evaluates its efficacy in treating pilonidal sinus, emphasizing patient compliance, complications, and recurrence rates. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent Limberg flap closure. Patients with other local pathologies were excluded. The data were collected from preoperative forms and the 1-year postoperative follow-up record. The data comprised a complete history, routine clinical, local examination, and laboratory investigations. Ethical approval was obtained. Results A total of 132 patients were reviewed. Complications were minimal, with three cases of wound infection, ten seromas, and one hematoma. No instances of wound dehiscence or flap necrosis were reported. Hypoesthesia occurred in six patients, and recurrence was observed in four. Patients generally experienced reduced postoperative pain and minimal scarring and returned to work after an average of 19.6 days. Conclusions The Limberg flap procedure demonstrates efficacy in treating sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus, offering reduced infection rates, decreased postoperative pain, early return to work, and low recurrence rates. Despite study limitations, including its nonrandomized and retrospective design, these findings support the procedure’s safety and effectiveness, warranting further investigation.