2020 Volume 36 Issue 3 Pages 143-148
First branchial cleft anomalies are rare in clinical settings, and account for 1 to 8% of all branchial abnormalities. They are due to incomplete fusion of the ventral portion of the first and second brachial arches. Malformation can develop in any part of the external auditory canal to the mandibular angle, including the parotid gland area. As the fistula tract is located close to the facial nerve originating in the second brachial arch, it is important to preserve the facial nerve during surgery. However, the relationship between the lesion and the facial nerve varies. Thus, it is difficult to predict this relationship when making the preoperative diagnosis.
We were able to dissect the lesion safely using the facial nerve monitor that is usually employed in parotidectomy.
