Hidradenitis Suppurativa: How Surgical Collaboration is Changing the Game
Imagine a condition so painful and debilitating that it affects every aspect of a person’s life, yet remains widely misunderstood. That’s hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) for you. But here’s where it gets hopeful: at the 10th Annual Symposium on Hidradenitis Suppurativa Advances (SHSA), hosted by the HS Foundation, experts like Ralph George, MD, FRCS, are shedding light on how surgical collaboration is transforming outcomes across all disease stages. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about surgery itself, but how it’s working hand-in-hand with other treatments to make a real difference.
During his presentation, “Procedural Interventions Across the Spectrum of HS,” Dr. George, an associate professor and director of the CPD Department of Surgery at the University of Toronto, highlighted a bold truth: “Surgery is working better than ever for HS, but not because of surgeons alone. It’s the collaboration with other treatments that’s amplifying its impact.” This shift is redefining the role of surgical procedures in managing HS, offering hope to patients who’ve struggled with this chronic condition.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While surgery isn’t mandatory, Dr. George argues it’s a valuable tool across the HS spectrum—even for mild, localized cases. “Many patients fear surgery or see it as a last resort, but it can be a game-changer, even in early stages,” he explains. This challenges the common belief that surgery is only for severe cases, sparking a debate: Should surgery be considered earlier in treatment plans? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Another key takeaway? The rapid pace of HS research is nothing short of exciting. “It’s hard to keep up with the advancements in HS right now,” Dr. George notes. From bench research to clinical trials, these breakthroughs are empowering surgeons to tackle the disease more effectively. This raises a thought-provoking question: Could HS one day become as manageable as conditions like breast cancer, where surgery plays a diminishing role?
What makes SHSA truly unique is its interdisciplinary approach. Unlike most medical conferences, SHSA brings together molecular biologists, patients, surgeons, and dermatologists under one roof. “This dynamic is rare and invaluable,” Dr. George says. “We all bring something to the table, and we’re all better for it.” It’s a refreshing reminder of what’s possible when diverse perspectives collaborate.
As we look to the future, Dr. George remains optimistic yet realistic: “We still have a long way to go in HS. But if advancements mean surgeons like me become less needed, I’m all for it.” This humble yet powerful statement encapsulates the spirit of progress in HS care.
Final thought: As treatments evolve, could surgery become less central to HS management? Share your opinions below—we’d love to hear how you think the landscape of HS treatment will shift in the coming years.
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