Karydakis Flap
An asymmetric elliptical excision and flap advancement that moves the healed scar away from the natal cleft midline - significantly reducing pilonidal sinus recurrence. A cornerstone of minimally invasive pilonidal sinus treatment in Hyderabad.
What is Karydakis Flap?
The Karydakis Flap uses an asymmetric off-centre elliptical excision of the pilonidal sinus followed by a medialisation advancement flap - moving the wound closure to one side of the midline. This simple but highly effective principle eliminates the moist, hairy midline environment that predisposes to recurrence.
Dr. Samhitha Reddy performs the Karydakis Flap at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad as a primary or secondary procedure for pilonidal sinus, offering an excellent balance of simplicity, low recurrence (<5%), and faster recovery. It is one of the most recommended pilonidal sinus treatment options in Hyderabad for both primary and recurrent disease.
Active abscess must be fully drained and resolved before the Karydakis Flap is performed. Post-operative laser hair removal significantly reduces recurrence by eliminating the hair ingrowth trigger.
How the Procedure Works
Asymmetric Elliptical Excision
An asymmetric ellipse is marked to one side of the midline, encompassing all sinus pits and tracts. Excision is taken down to the presacral fascia.
Flap Mobilisation
The medial skin and subcutaneous flap is mobilised from the lateral aspect, preserving its blood supply.
Flap Advancement & Fixation
The flap is advanced medially. Its deep surface is sutured to the presacral fascia - medialisation ensures the wound closes off-midline.
Skin Closure
The skin is closed with vertical mattress or subcuticular absorbable sutures. A suction drain is placed for 24-48 hours in larger excisions.
Post-operative Care
Hospital stay 1 day. Wound checked at 7 and 14 days. Laser hair removal around the scar advised at 6 weeks. Return to work in 2-3 weeks.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Very low recurrence rate (<5%) - superior to midline primary closure
- →Off-midline closure eliminates the moist midline environment that promotes re-infection
- →Primary wound closure - faster healing than open excision (2-3 weeks vs 6-8)
- →Low complication rate - wound breakdown occurs in <5% of cases
- →Simple, reproducible technique with an excellent evidence base
- →Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad with post-operative laser hair removal advice
The Karydakis operation is wonderfully practical - simple to learn, reproducible to perform, and with impressive long-term results. The key insight of moving the scar off the midline is elegant in its simplicity and highly effective in its impact.
— Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Karydakis Flap Surgery Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of Karydakis flap surgery in Hyderabad depends on the extent of pilonidal disease, complexity of recurrent disease, investigations required, and the care needed before and after surgery.
For patients with recurrent pilonidal disease, the approximate cost of Karydakis flap surgery ranges between ₹50,000 and ₹90,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Karydakis Flap | ₹50,000 – ₹90,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, findings during evaluation, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence Karydakis Flap Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Complexity of pilonidal disease: The extent of recurrent disease, number of sinus tracts, previous surgeries, and scar tissue may influence the treatment approach and surgical planning.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required investigations, clinical examination, and medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
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Additional procedures: If procedures such as removal of infected tissue, abscess drainage, or other pilonidal sinus management procedures are required, the cost may vary.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, wound care, medicines, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is Karydakis Flap Covered by Insurance?
Karydakis flap surgery may be covered by health insurance when it is performed for a medically necessary condition. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before the procedure.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Samhitha Reddy
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Proctologist and Colorectal Specialist in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and investigation reports to determine whether Karydakis flap surgery is suitable for you. She will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Samhitha Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.