Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that causes pain and discomfort in various body regions. This review explores the comparative effectiveness of two surgical techniques, namely, surgical deroofing and carbon dioxide laser therapy, in managing symptomatic HS, particularly in patients with Hurley stage I-III disease. We conducted a systematic literature search on PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov. The clinical evidence suggests that surgical deroofing and carbon dioxide laser treatment are effective strategies for managing symptomatic HS. However, a comprehensive analysis of 1,120 patients indicates a higher recurrence rate with surgical deroofing. Further investigation into short-term and long-term follow-up data revealed comparable recurrence-free rates within 12 months post-procedure. Beyond 12 months, carbon dioxide laser treatment exhibited slightly higher recurrence-free rates, which necessitate more extensive studies for validation due to the limited sample size. In addition, surgical deroofing demonstrated quicker healing times, while carbon dioxide laser therapy showcased varying timelines, with primary closure after laser excision presenting a two-week healing time. Both procedures reported high patient satisfaction, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment decisions. Therefore, further research is essential to evaluate the efficacy of each treatment modality considering individual patient profiles and disease severity. It will benefit individuals affected by HS, leading to better health outcomes.
Keywords: carbon dioxide laser; efficacy; hidradenitis suppurativa; recurrence; surgical deroofing.
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