Resection of recurrent branchial cleft deformity using selective neck dissection technique.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology
• Head and Neck Surgery

Background:

• Recurrent branchial cleft deformities pose surgical challenges.
• Previous treatments may have limitations in achieving complete resection and preventing recurrence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of selective neck dissection for recurrent second, third, and fourth branchial cleft deformities.
• To assess the safety and recurrence rates associated with this technique.

Main Methods:

• Selective neck dissection was performed on 19 patients with recurrent branchial cleft deformities.
• Key steps included contouring sternocleidomastoid muscle, strap muscle, and carotid sheath, followed by en bloc lesion resection.
• Internal fistula ligation and suturing were completed using a purse-string approach.

Main Results:

• No injuries to critical neurovascular structures (carotid artery, jugular vein, cranial nerves) were reported.
• No surgical complications, such as poor wound healing, were observed.
• Follow-up (7-73 months) revealed no instances of recurrence.

Conclusions:

• Selective neck dissection enables en bloc resection of branchial cleft remnants, significantly reducing recurrence risk.
• Meticulous contouring of surrounding structures is crucial for successful en bloc resection while preserving vital anatomy.
• This technique offers a safe and effective solution for managing recurrent branchial cleft deformities.