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Transoral robotic surgery–assisted excision of a congenital cervical salivary duct fistula presenting as a branchial cleft fistula
Author(s) -
Rassekh Christopher H.,
Kazahaya Ken,
Livolsi Virginia A.,
Loevner Laurie A.,
Cowan Andy T.,
Weinstein Gregory S.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/hed.24123
Subject(s) - medicine , fistula , surgery , branchial arch , duct (anatomy) , embryo , biology , microbiology and biotechnology
Background Congenital cervical salivary duct fistulae are rare entities and can mimic branchial cleft fistulae. Ectopic salivary tissue associated with these pharyngocervical tracts may have malignant potential. Methods and Results We present a case report of a novel surgical approach and review of the literature. A 27‐year‐old man presented with complaint of drainage from the right side of his neck since early childhood. A tract was found from the posterior tonsillar pillar into the neck and ectopic salivary tissue was found along the tract. A congenital hearing loss was also present. Transoral robotic (TORS)‐assisted surgery was used in the management of this patient and allowed excellent visualization of the pharyngeal component of the lesion and a minimally invasive approach. The patient did well with no recurrence. Conclusion TORS was helpful for management of a congenital salivary fistula and may be helpful for branchial cleft fistulae. These lesions may be associated with the branchio‐oto‐renal (BOR) syndrome. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E49–E53, 2016