NCT06406621 · Nemours Children's Clinic
Pilot Trial Assessing the Effectiveness of Laser Hair Depilation on Pilonidal Disease Recurrence in Patients With Darker Skin Color
What this study is about
Pilot randomly assigned trial assessing the effectiveness of laser hair depilation on pilonidal disease recurrence in patients with darker skin color
View original scientific description
Pilot randomized trial assessing the effectiveness of laser hair depilation on pilonidal disease recurrence in patients with darker skin color
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Laser hair depilation
Laser hair depilation treatment with Nd:YAG laser every 4-6 weeks to obtain a total of 5 treatments. Similar to the control group, they will also receive the "best recommended standard care" including teaching on hair removal techniques and asked to perform either chemical or mechanical depilation as needed between treatments.
Primary outcome measures
Disease Recurrence
Time frame: 1 year
Disease recurrence is defined as development of a new pilonidal abscess, folliculitis, or draining sinus after treatment, which would require antibiotic therapy, additional surgical incision and drainage, or excision. development of an abscess, folliculitis, or draining sinus which requires treatment (antibiotic therapy, surgical incision and drainage, or excision).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age: 10-21 years
- Diagnosis of pilonidal disease
- Fitzpatrick skin type IV, V, or VI
Exclusion criteria
- History of photosensitivity
- Actively inflamed pilonidal sinus (will be offered enrollment upon resolution).
Where
- Wilmington, Delaware
Collaborators
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 24, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations