Excision of Preauricular Sinus
A preauricular sinus is a congenital small pit or tract usually located near the front of the ear that can become infected repeatedly.
Surgical excision aims to remove the entire tract and any associated cyst or abscess, preventing recurrence and improving comfort and cosmesis.
Overview And Clinical Background
Congenital tract near the ear
The sinus forms when embryological fusion is incomplete during ear development.
It often remains asymptomatic but can present with infection, discharge, or swelling requiring surgical management.
- Anatomy: A small external pit may lead to a variable-length sinus tract beneath the skin.
- When symptomatic: Recurrent discharge, abscess, or local pain prompts excision.
- Goal of surgery: Complete tract removal to prevent further infections.
Symptoms, Signs And Presentation
Presentation ranges from a harmless skin pit to repeated infections with pain and swelling.
Careful examination distinguishes simple pits from infected tracts or cysts.
- Visible pit: Small opening near the anterior ear margin.
- Recurrent discharge: Serous or purulent drainage during infection.
- Localized swelling or abscess: Painful, tender lump requiring incision or excision.
Diagnosis Methods And Investigations
Clinical mapping and imaging
Diagnosis is clinical but imaging helps define tract depth to plan complete excision.
Mapping prevents leaving residual sinus that causes recurrence.
- Clinical exam: Inspection and gentle probing to assess tract direction.
- Ultrasound or MRI: Used if tract is deep or complex to map its extent.
- Culture if infected: Guides antibiotic choice when discharge is present.
Treatment Options And Surgical Techniques
Surgical excision under local or general anesthesia is the definitive treatment.
Techniques focus on excising the entire tract with careful closure to minimize scarring.
- Pre-op care: Treat active infection with antibiotics and drainage if needed before surgery.
- Excision technique: Elliptical or S-shaped incision with careful dissection to remove the full tract.
- Closure and follow-up: Layered closure and wound care, with suture removal and scar assessment.
Recovery, Risks And Prognosis
Healing typically completes within 1–2 weeks; recurrence is uncommon after complete excision.
Risks include wound infection, hematoma, or small residual scar.
Why Choose Us
CureU Healthcare offers experienced ENT and facial surgeons who focus on complete excision with minimal scarring.
We combine careful surgical technique with clear post-op instructions to speed recovery.
Conclusion
Complete excision of a preauricular sinus is straightforward and effective.
With proper surgical planning and follow-up care at CureU Healthcare, recurrence and complications are rare.
