Anomalies of the first branchial cleft

Anatomical Variations of the Facial Nerve in First Branchial Cleft Anomalies

“…Reports in the literature suggest that the anomaly is superficial to the facial nerve in the majority of cases. 5,6,[13][14][15][16][17] In our series, of the 5 sinuses, 3 were deep to the facial nerve and 2 were superficial. Of the 2 cysts, 1 was deep and 1 was superficial to the inferior division and deep to the superior division of the facial nerve.…”

A case of post-auricular sinus

“…This tract was successfully and completely removed by a simple exploration, without encountering the facial nerve, although a close association has been reported and formal exposure of the nerve suggested (Crymble and Braithwaite, 1964;Work and Proctor, 1963;Kaneko et al, 1974).…”

First Branchial Groove Anomaly

“…They extend into the parotid gland and may lie deep or superficial to the facial nerve; or may even lie between the branches of the facial nerve. 5 The lining of these lesions comprises skin and cartilage and represents a duplication anomaly of the cartilaginous car canal. Unlike type 1, these lesions usually communicate with the external auditory mcatus and may have a fistulous tract; they are commonly seen in young children.…”