Israel Medical Association Journal
2005 Mar, 7(3): 160-2.
Feldbrin Z, Singer M, Keynan O, Rzetelny V, Hendel D.
Department of Orthopedics, Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.
BACKGROUND
Coccygectomy is an uncommon procedure that many surgeons are reluctant to perform due to its proximity to the anus and the risk of rectal perforation and infection.
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and outcome of coccygectomy.
METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed the operative results in nine patients (seven females and two males) who underwent coccygectomy for coccygodynia in the last 5 years following failure of conservative treatment.
RESULTS
The outcome of the procedure was excellent in five patients, good in one patient and poor in two patients.
CONCLUSIONS
It is mandatory to perform bone scanning in every patient with coccygodynia and before coccygectomy in order to rule out the presence of malignancy. Coccygectomy is recommended for patients with isolated coccygodynia.