Management of first branchial anomalies in children: 20 years of experience

This 20-year retrospective study examines surgical management of first branchial cleft anomalies in 17 pediatric patients. Complete excision was achieved in 88% using tailored approaches based on Work classification, with 18% recurrence and transient facial nerve paresis in some cases. Contrast enhancement on preoperative imaging correlated with increased surgical complications.