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Management of the preauricular sinus
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tulane Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
Summary
Preauricular sinus, a congenital ear anomaly, is usually benign but can become infected. Complete surgical excision of the sinus tract is the only definitive cure to prevent recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Genetics
Background:
- Preauricular sinus is a common congenital anomaly, particularly in children.
- It presents as a skin opening anterior to the ear, connected to a cyst network.
- Most cases are benign and asymptomatic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the nature and management of preauricular sinus.
- To emphasize the importance of complete excision for definitive treatment.
- To describe a technique for wide lesion exposure to prevent recurrence.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on preauricular sinus.
- Clinical observation of pediatric cases.
- Surgical technique description for excision.
Main Results:
- The vast majority of preauricular sinuses are benign and require no intervention.
- Draining sinus tracts are susceptible to infection.
- Complete excision of the pit and sinus tract is curative.
Conclusions:
- Complete surgical excision is the only definitive treatment for preauricular sinus.
- Wide exposure of the lesion during surgery is recommended to prevent recurrence.
- Prompt excision is advised for infected draining sinus tracts.