Second Branchial Arch Anomalies: A Single Center Experience
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63682/jns.v12i1.7458Keywords:
Branchial anomalies, Cervical cysts, Cervical sinuses, Cervical fistulae Infants, Children, PediatricAbstract
Background: Second branchial arch anomalies represent the most common type of branchial arch anomalies, accounting for approximately 95% of all cases.
Patients and methods: This retrospective study evaluates the clinical presentation, management strategies, and outcomes of 86 patients with second branchial arch anomalies treated at Sohag University Hospital between January 2011 and March 2023.
Results: The majority of patients presented with a discharging neck fistula or sinus (70.97%), while non-discharging lesions were observed in 25.81%, and cystic neck masses accounted for 3.23%. Preoperative imaging included neck ultrasound (86.02%), CT scans (30.11%), and fistulography (10.75%). Fine-needle aspiration cytology was used in three cystic cases. Surgical excision was performed using a single incision in 91.4% of lesions, while 8.6% required two incisions. Methylene blue dye was utilized intraoperatively in 58.06% of cases to delineate the tract, with visualization of pharyngeal openings in 9.68% of lesions, confirming complete fistulas. Postoperative complications included wound hematoma/seroma (2.15%) and infection (1.07%). No recurrences were recorded during a mean follow-up period of 5.3 months.
Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis, careful surgical planning, and meticulous dissection to ensure successful outcomes with minimal morbidity
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