Aims and objectives
Branchial cleft anomalies result from abnormal persistence of branchial apparatus,
which is located at the lateral part of the neck.
They represent the 2nd most common pathological malformation of the face and neck
They may present as cysts,
sinus tracts,
fistulae or cartilaginous remnants and present with typical clinical and radiological patterns dependent on which arch is involved.
A correct diagnosis using several imaging features will lead to proper management.
The aim of the study is to:
- Understand Embryology of the branchial apparatus and...
Methods and materials
This is a retrospective study of 25 patients who were admitted to the Department of oto-rhino-laryngology and diagnosed with branchial anomalies (branchial cleft cysts and fistulas) during the period between 1990 and 2016.
In all the cases,
complete history and clinical findings were recorded.
Imaging was performed in all patients including ultrasonography (n=19 ),
Computed Tomography (n=13 ) and fistulography (n= 5).
Complete excision was the treatment in all cases.
Results
There were 10females and 15males with an age range of 18months to 73 yearwith a mean age of 19 years
The majority of the patients were in their first decade of life.
the most common presentation was a lateral neck swelling.
The clinical examination showed a painless,
slowly growing tumoron the lateral surface of the neck,
more often on the right side,
and in 14cases with a concomitant infection.
The most common malformations of the laterocervical region were cysts and fistula of the second cleft...
Conclusion
Branchial anomalies are relatively common especially in children.
Correct diagnosis relying on imaging features is essential to avoid inadequate surgery and multiple procedures.
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