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Fourth branchial sinus causing recurrent cervical abscess
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Australia.
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Recurrent cervical abscesses may indicate an underlying fourth branchial sinus, a rare congenital anomaly. Surgical excision of the sinus tract effectively resolved abscesses in three patients, preventing recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Anatomy
- Embryology
Background:
- Recurrent cervical abscesses are challenging clinical presentations.
- Previous drainage procedures may not address the underlying etiology.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with recurrent cervical abscesses.
- A fourth branchial sinus originating from the piriform fossa was identified in all cases.
- Imaging and endoscopy confirmed a sinus tract from the left piriform fossa.
Findings:
- Surgical neck exploration with hemithyroidectomy and sinus tract excision was performed.
- All patients remained abscess-free post-operatively.
- This suggests fourth branchial sinus as a potential cause of recurrent cervical abscesses.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering branchial sinus anomalies in recurrent cervical abscesses.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of surgical management for fourth branchial sinus.
- Contributes to understanding branchial apparatus embryology and related pathologies.