Background

The first branchial cleft is an extremely rare occurrence that manifests as cysts, sinuses, or fistulas. From all branchial abnormalities, the first branchial cleft fistula makes up almost 4% of the branchial abnormalities [1]. It can be distinguished based on the histological and anatomical traits. First branchial clefts can be caused by the inadequate removal or closure of the ectoderm [2]. The location of the fistula can be sufficiently determined through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scans).

Case presentation

An 8-year-old female patient presented with a mass on the left side of her neck with a history of sinus discharge. The cystic lesion was first noted months after birth, but it was smaller in size. The patient has no history of hearing loss and took an otologic examination, and the evaluation results were normal and reveal that no effect on the tympanic membrane. The patient ran MRI scans, and scans showed a fistulous tract extending along the left side of the neck to the middle ear (Fig. 1). Surgery was the preferable choice of treatment. The patient underwent surgical excision to extract the cyst. The operation followed a multidisciplinary approach with the aid of anesthetists, ENT doctors, radiologists, and pediatric surgeons. During operation, methylene blue dye was injected in the cervical opening of the fistulous tract to mark the fistula. An elliptical incision was done around the fistula. It extended along the left mandible to the ear. The branches of the facial nerve were superficial to the fistula. Throughout the operation, nerve monitoring device was used to detect the facial nerve. Also, ENT surgeon attended the procedure to double-check the integrity of the facial nerve. The fistula has been extracted with no complications. The postoperative sessions revealed that the facial nerve function was normal. There were no signs of drooping or difficulty controlling facial muscles. No complications or visible recurrences of sinus or any residue were noted in a 2-year follow-up (Fig. 2).

Fig. 1
figure 1

There is evidence of a branchial cleft fistula measuring 1.1 cm that is directed toward the head and medial to the pinna of the ear. MRI scan T-1. A Coronal cut. B Sagittal cut. C Coronal cut. D Axial cut

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Fig. 2
figure 2

A Pre-operative clinical photo showing the fistulous mass. B Schematic diagram of intra-operative with the aid of NIM. C Postoperation during follow-up sessions showed no signs of discharge or recurrence

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Discussion

From all branchial cleft anomalies, the most common defect arises from the second branchial arch, which makes up almost 95% of defects, then the first arch of less than 6% of defects. Embryologically, after the third week of embryonic development, six pairs of branchial arches and clefts start to appear in the neck and head of the embryo. Various cartilages and vessels will start to form from these arches. First branchial arch appearance is associated with the embryonic growth of parotid. Additionally, it is the precursor of the formation of the maxilla that arises from the first arch, and the first pharyngeal pouch forms the middle ear, eustachian tube, and the mastoid antrum. During the sixth gestation, these arches start to merge and disappear; however, in some rare cases, the first branchial arch will not completely disappear [3], thus, resulting in the first branchial cleft anomaly. Branchial cleft cysts, fistulas, and sinuses may occur in any age group, but the first and second decades of life are the most common [4].

First branchial cleft has two distinctive types—type 1 and type 2—and the classification is based on the anatomical and histological location of the cleft by the studies of Arnot and Work, respectively. Arnot’s type 1 lesion has sinuses or cysts found on the parotid gland, while type 2 lesion is located between the external auditory canal (EAC) and the upper neck. According to Work, type 1 is the duplication of the membranous external ear canal parallel to the normal ear canal, whereas type 2 is the duplication of the membranous external auditory canal and the pinna, which is located in the upper neck near the angle of the mandible [5]. In our case, the histological and anatomical properties demonstrated type 2 first branchial fistula.

Due to its rarity, the first branchial cleft fistula is usually falsely diagnosed and mistreated [6]. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are necessary for avoiding recurrences and preventing damage to the facial nerve. A branchial cleft cyst is a fluctuant mass that should be removed once diagnosed, for the cyst can spread and harden over time and be a source of infection and drainage [7, 8]. In case of leaving any tissue residue, it will have a high chance of recurrence. The chief constraint was preserving the facial nerve (marginal mandibular nerve). The facial nerve and the first branchial cleft are closely related more than any other type of branchial defect. This correlation makes it indispensable to use a nerve monitoring device (NIM) routinely throughout the operation. Using NIM can lower the risks of recurrence and damage to the facial nerve. In case of not using NIM, it can risk damaging facial nerve which can lead to facial nerve palsy, infections, recurrence, and negatively impact the patient. Also, MRI scans are extremely beneficial in the identification of cysts by providing a high degree resolution of soft tissues and major neck vessels [9]. The proximity to the facial nerves and the uncommonness of the anomaly results in high rates of complications. Complication rates were lower when otolaryngologists performed surgeries because of the higher experience with branchial anomaly surgeries than other surgeons. Consequently, it is highly recommended to seek specialized centers [10].

Conclusions

In conclusion, first branchial cleft is a rare occurrence that is often misdiagnosed which can lead to insufficient treatment and delay of proper treatment. Preserving the facial nerve is the main goal of the operation. Using nerve monitoring device is essential to the succession of the operation.