Excision of Second Branchial Cleft Cyst Via Retroauricular Approach without Assistance of Endoscopic or Robotic System

Kim, A Young; Ryu, Jin Hyun; Sohn, Jin Ho; Ahn, Dongbin

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Traditionally, the surgical approach for the excision of second branchial cleft cysts involves performing a transverse cervical incision on the skin overlying the mass. Recently, there has been a significant interest on the cosmetic outcomes of this surgery, and it has been found that the retroauricular approach produces better results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a retroauricular approach for the excision of second branchial cleft cysts without the assistance of endoscopic or robotic system.
SUBJECTS AND METHOD
From August 2013 to May 2016, a total of 12 patients with second branchial cleft cysts underwent surgery for the excision of the cyst via retroauricular approach, which involved an incision along the retroauricular sulcus and hairline. The surgical outcomes, complications, and subjective satisfaction with incision scars were assessed.
RESULTS
In all 12 cases, the second branchial cleft cysts were removed successfully under direct vision and without the requirement of endoscopic assistance. The mean operation time was 80.3 min (range, 65-105 min). No significant complications were reported, such as skin flap necrosis, hematoma, seroma, or serious cranial nerve injury. The mean visual analogue scale score for subjective satisfaction with the incision scar was 8.8 (range, 7-10).
CONCLUSION
The excision of second branchial cleft cysts via retroauricular approach without the assistance of endoscopic or robotic system is technically feasible and it provides a favorable cosmetic outcome.