Fourth branchial sinus causing recurrent cervical abscess

Abstract

Background: Three patients who presented with recurrent cervical abscesses were found to have a branchial sinus arising in the piriform fossa. Each patient had previously had cervical abscess drainage procedures. Methods: A retrospective review of patients with recurrent cervical abscess and associated fourth branchial sinus was carried out. Results: In each case, imaging and endoscopy identified a sinus tract from the left piriform fossa. Neck exploration with hemithyroidectomy and excision of the sinus tract was performed without further recurrence of abscess. Conclusions: We believe these cases to represent a fourth branchial sinus. The relevant embryology and anatomy of the branchial app..