Intergluteal fold depth has no influence on pilonidal sinus disease development

Maak M, Mörsdorf P, Bari L, Braun-Münker M, Scharonow M, Orth M, Doll D (2025)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2025

Book Volume: 41

Pages Range: 130-134

Journal Issue: 2

DOI: 10.47717/turkjsurg.2025.6665

Abstract

Objective: The etiology of primary pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) remains unclear. Prior investigations suggest that sharp fragments from the occiput contribute to the formation of PSD. In 2009 a correlation between PSD and a deeper natal cleft was reported. We investigated the association between intergluteal fold (IGF) depth and PSD risk using a standardized five-step measuring protocol. Material and Methods: Our clinical prospective study included 95 PSD patients and 105 non-PSD individuals, and measurements were taken from the glabella sacralis to the anus in a northern German population. Results: The mean (± standard deviation) intergluteal depth progressively increased from the intergluteal opening from the sacral glabella at 9.1 (±3.4) mm to a maximum of 62.6 (±10.4) mm. Notably, the deepest point was consistently observed at the anus, where PSD occurrence is rare. No significant difference in IGF depth between PSD and non-PSD patients was found. Additionally, PSD predominantly developed in the proximal (cranial) third of the IGF, despite the maximum depth being in the distal region. Conclusion: These findings suggest that IGF depth is not a risk factor for PSD.

Authors with CRIS profile

Matthias Maak Medizinische Fakultät

Involved external institutions

Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes (UKS) DE Germany (DE) St. Marienhospital Vechta DE Germany (DE) Hochschule Fulda DE Germany (DE) St. Josefs-Hospital Cloppenburg gemeinnützige GmbH DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Maak, M., Mörsdorf, P., Bari, L., Braun-Münker, M., Scharonow, M., Orth, M., & Doll, D. (2025). Intergluteal fold depth has no influence on pilonidal sinus disease development. , 41(2), 130-134. https://doi.org/10.47717/turkjsurg.2025.6665

MLA:

Maak, Matthias, et al. "Intergluteal fold depth has no influence on pilonidal sinus disease development." 41.2 (2025): 130-134.

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