Case Report of Complete Second Branchial Fistula.

Abstract

Background: Branchial fistulas are anomalies of embryonic development of the branchial apparatus, with the most common being second branchial fistulas. However, complete fistulas are infrequent and may relapse. Furthermore, they are difficult to manage without adequate treatment.

Methods: This article presents the case of a complete second branchial fistula in a 1-year-old female patient who had a sinus on the right side of the neck since birth. Excision of the fistula tract was performed without preoperative fistulography. The tract was then ligated and dissected immediately below the mucosa.

Results: The postoperative course was uneventful, and there was no evidence of recurrence.

Conclusions: Previous case reports have also demonstrated good outcomes without excision of the internal opening or tonsillectomy.