Excision and Skin Grafting for Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Effective Treatment for Advanced Cases
Welcome to our practice! Living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can be painful and challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. We specialize in advanced surgical treatments, including excision and skin grafting, to provide relief and improve quality of life for patients with severe or chronic HS. Below, you’ll find an overview of this procedure and how it can help you.
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition characterized by recurring, painful nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts, often in areas like the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts. These lesions can drain, scar, and significantly impact daily life. For advanced cases or when other treatments have failed, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Excision and Skin Grafting: A Surgical Solution
Excision and skin grafting is a surgical approach that removes affected tissue and repairs the area, providing relief from symptoms and reducing the likelihood of recurrence.
How the Procedure Works
- Excision of affected tissue: The diseased skin and underlying tissue are carefully removed, including all nodules, sinus tracts, and scarred areas.
- Preparation of the wound: The area is prepared for grafting by allowing it to heal for a few weeks with local wound care.
- Skin grafting: When the wound bed is ready a healthy layer of skin, typically taken from another area of your body (donor site), is transplanted to cover the wound. The graft promotes healing and restores the appearance and function of the skin.
Benefits of Excision and Skin Grafting
- Effective removal: Comprehensive excision eliminates affected tissue, providing significant relief from symptoms.
- Reduced recurrence: By addressing the root cause, this procedure minimizes the risk of new lesions forming in the treated area.
- Improved function and comfort: Skin grafting restores the skin, allowing for better movement and reduced irritation.
- Enhanced quality of life: Patients often experience improved physical and emotional well-being after surgery.
What to Expect
- Before surgery: During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history, assess the extent of your condition, and determine if excision and skin grafting is the best approach. You’ll receive detailed preoperative instructions to prepare for surgery.
- During surgery: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and may take an hour, depending on the size and location of the affected area.
- After surgery: Recovery involves a healing period for both the graft site and the donor site. You’ll receive instructions on wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Recovery and Results
Healing times vary, but most patients can return to light activities within a few weeks. The grafted skin may initially look different, but it will blend more naturally over time. Our team will provide guidance and support throughout your recovery to ensure the best possible outcome.
Is Excision and Skin Grafting Right for You?
This procedure is ideal for patients with severe or recurrent hidradenitis suppurativa who have not found relief with other treatments. During your consultation, we’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
Take Control of Your Health
You don’t have to let hidradenitis suppurativa dictate your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about excision and skin grafting. At our practice, we’re dedicated to providing expert, compassionate care to help you move forward with confidence and comfort.