[Fistulas of the 3rd and 4th branchial clefts]

The third and fourth branchial fistulas are exceptionally rare; both originate from the pyriform sinus, extend through the inferior constrictor of the pharynx and cross either the upper or the lower aspect of the superior laryngeal nerve, downwards and frontwards. Like the more common first and 2nd branchial fistulas, a cervical abscess is the usual consequence of these fistulas which should be treated by radical excision.