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Retroauricular hairline approach for excision of second branchial cleft cysts: a preliminary experience
Brad LeBert1, Sean Weiss, Jonas Johnson
1Deparment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA. bleber@lsuhsc.edu
Objective:
To report our preliminary experience with a retroauricular hairline incision (RAHI) for excision of second branchial cleft cysts (SBCC) and to present a relevant literature review.
Study Design:
Retrospective case series.
Methods:
A retrospective chart review was conducted of two consecutive patients diagnosed with SBCC who underwent surgical removal via a RAHI. Relevant demographic, clinicopathological, and radiological data was recorded. A web-based search was conducted to identify relevant scientific literature on "retroauricular hairline incision /approach" in order to present a systematic review of current literature.
Result:
In both cases, the SBCC (6.0 cm and 3.8 cm) could be safely excised without major complications. One patient developed a temporary hypoesthesia of ear lobe. None of the patients had a postoperative infection, hematoma, spillage of cyst fluid, or necrosis of the skin flap. All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic outcome of the procedure (100%). The incisions healed well without any evidence of hair loss or keloid formation.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the RAHI offers an excellent surgical outcome and cosmetic result with no proven increased risks to the patients who require surgical excision of a benign SBCC.
