Cost-utility Analysis of the Use of a Laser Fiber in the Management of Non-abscessed Pilonidal Cyst

Pilonidal cyst surgery is common in France and mainly affects young adults. Conventional surgery is effective but may be associated with longer healing time, prolonged dressing use, and work absence. Laser fiber treatment is a minimally invasive alternative used in France since 2019 and may reduce healing time and postoperative burden; however, prospective randomized comparative medico-economic evidence is lacking. This national multicenter study randomizes adults with non-abscessed pilonidal cyst to laser fiber treatment or conventional surgery in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint is the incremental cost-utility ratio over 12 months, using total costs and utility derived from EQ-5D-5L (QALY). Participants are followed from baseline to month 12, with assessments at J8, J15, M3, M6, M9, and M12.

Inclusion criteria

• Male or female aged 18 years or older and younger than 80 years.
• Patient for whom excision of a non-abscessed pilonidal cyst by laser fiber or conventional surgery is indicated.
• Patient informed and having provided free, informed, written consent before any study-specific procedure.

Exclusion criteria

• Acute abscess.
• Contraindication to surgery and/or anesthesia.
• Need for urgent intervention for non-abscessed pilonidal cyst.
• Participation in another ongoing study or exclusion period.
• No health insurance coverage/protection.
• Legal protection measure or deprived of liberty by judicial or administrative decision.
• Hospitalized without consent.