Surgical treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa: an analysis of postoperative outcome, cosmetic results and quality of life in 255 patients

Abstract

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with increasing incidence. Severe disease stages are seen as a therapeutic challenge and pose the threat of significant restrictions in patients' life quality.

Objectives

We evaluated postoperative outcome after wide local excision for HS as well as postoperative course, cosmetic results, disease recurrence and quality of life.

Methods

All patients receiving radical surgical treatment for HS (Hurley III) between 2006-2015 were identified and received a letter-based survey. They were asked about postoperative course, cosmetic results, recurrence and life quality.

Results

255 patients (103 men, 152 women) answered the questionnaire. 95% of patients reported disease-specific restrictions in everyday life. 72% of patients did not experience any postoperative adverse events, however, postoperative pain with need for analgesics was reported in 38%. The majority of patients (80%) were very satisfied or satisfied after surgery, 85% of patients would recommend surgery to other affected persons.

Limitations

The retrospective design of the study was a limitation.

Conclusions

The well-known negative psychological and social effects are a relevant part of HS and emphasize the importance of immediate therapy. Since long-lasting local disease-control can be achieved, surgery should be considered as first-line therapy.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.