Historical role of roentgen irradiation in the treatment of pilonidal sinus

Pilonidal sinus, a condition characterized by painful abscesses or cysts in the sacrococcygeal region, has troubled humanity for centuries. The history of its treatment is a testament to the evolving medical knowledge and practices over time. One intriguing chapter in this history is the historical role of irradiation in the treatment of pilonidal sinus. This article explores how irradiation was once considered a viable therapeutic option, its historical context, the scientific reasoning behind its use, and the consecutive shift away from this approach propelled by the emergence of side effects and the advent of more efficacious treatments.