Surgical Options for HS Management

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and tunnels under the skin, primarily in areas prone to friction and sweating. While medical treatments are the first line of defense, surgery can be a crucial option for those with moderate to severe HS or those who have not responded adequately to other treatments. Dr. Som specializes in providing comprehensive care for HS patients, including surgical interventions tailored to individual needs. This blog explores the surgical options available for HS management, criteria for patient eligibility, and essential aspects of post-surgery care.

Understanding Surgical Interventions for HS

Surgical options for HS aim to remove affected tissue to reduce symptoms, prevent recurrence, and improve the quality of life. The choice of surgery depends on the severity and location of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health and treatment goals. Common surgical interventions include:

• Incision and Drainage: Primarily used for acute abscesses, this procedure provides temporary relief but does not prevent recurrence.
• Excision: This involves the complete removal of affected skin and underlying tissue. Excisions can be wide, removing large areas of tissue, or limited to smaller, specific areas.
• Deroofing: Suitable for recurrent abscesses and sinus tracts, deroofing involves removing the ‘roof’ of tunnels or abscesses to turn them into open wounds that can heal from the inside out.

Patient Eligibility for HS Surgery

Surgery is typically considered for patients with Stage 2 (moderate) or Stage 3 (severe) HS, characterized by recurrent abscesses, significant scarring, and the formation of tunnels. Eligibility for surgery also depends on:

• Response to Medical Treatments: Patients who have not seen significant improvement with medications may be candidates for surgery.
• Impact on Quality of Life: Surgery may be recommended for patients experiencing significant pain, mobility issues, or social and psychological distress due to HS.

Post-Surgery Care

Successful recovery from HS surgery requires careful post-operative care:

• Wound Management: Proper wound care is essential, especially for large excisions or deroofing procedures. Dr. Som provides detailed instructions on dressing changes, cleaning, and monitoring for signs of infection.
• Pain Management: Patients will receive guidance on managing pain through medications and other strategies.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, wearing loose clothing, and avoiding smoking, can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Follow-Up Visits: Regular check-ups with Dr. Som ensure proper healing and provide an opportunity to address any concerns or complications.

Conclusion

Surgical intervention can be a vital component of comprehensive HS management for patients struggling with moderate to severe disease. With a focus on individualized patient care, Dr. Som employs a variety of surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s specific condition and treatment goals. Surgery, combined with ongoing medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments, offers hope for reducing symptoms, preventing recurrence, and improving overall quality of life for those living with HS.

If you or someone you know is suffering from HS and considering surgical options, a consultation with Dr. Som can provide valuable insights into the most appropriate interventions and what to expect during the recovery process. Embracing a multidisciplinary approach, Dr. Som is dedicated to supporting his patients through every step of their HS journey, from initial consultation to post-surgery care and beyond. Contact us today to explore how surgical options for HS management can help you achieve relief and restore your quality of life.