Doctors find simpler surgery for severe skin disease affecting legs
Researchers report that setons—thin medical threads placed under the skin—may offer a less painful alternative to traditional surgery for hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic inflammatory condition. The technique could expand treatment options for patients who fail standard therapies, potentially reducing recovery time and improving patient outcomes in a disease with limited surgical solutions.
Originaltitel: Treatment of Ectopic Hidradenitis Suppurativa of the Lower Leg with Setons: A Case Report
Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts, typically affecting intertriginous areas. Deroofing is a commonly used surgical intervention but may be associated with significant postoperative pain and prolonged healing. Case Presentation: We report a 37-year-old woman with long-standing HS, Hurley stage III, involving typical regions and an atypical, refractory lesion on the left lower leg. After systemic biological treatment and intralesional corticosteroids failed to improve the atypical lesion, setons were used as a minimally invasive alternative, resulting in good clinical outcome and a high patient satisfaction. Conclusion: This case report supports a broader implementation of seton placement in HS lesions, providing symptomatic relief and facilitating healing while preserving tissue.