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The accessory tragus--no ordinary skin tag
1School of Medicine, University of California, Davis.
The Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Surgical excision effectively treats accessory tragus, a common congenital anomaly. Satisfactory cosmetic results are achieved by removing the cartilage, with rare associations to other developmental defects.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Plastic Surgery
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Accessory tragus is a benign congenital anomaly presenting as a small cartilaginous or fleshy growth anterior to the ear.
- It can cause cosmetic concerns and, rarely, hearing impairment.
- Understanding its embryological origin is crucial for management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of surgical excision for accessory tragus.
- To emphasize the importance of complete cartilage removal for satisfactory results.
- To discuss the association of accessory tragus with first branchial arch anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Review of surgical cases involving accessory tragus.
- Surgical excision technique focusing on complete removal of the protuberant cartilage.
- Post-operative assessment of cosmetic outcomes and complications.
Main Results:
- Surgical excision is a highly effective treatment for accessory tragus.
- Satisfactory cosmetic results are consistently achieved with careful technique.
- Associated developmental defects of the first branchial arch are infrequent.
Conclusions:
- Surgical excision is the gold standard for accessory tragus treatment.
- Complete removal of underlying cartilage ensures optimal aesthetic outcomes.
- Accessory tragus is typically an isolated finding with a low risk of associated anomalies.