When is the Right Age for Surgery on Preauricular Sinus in Children?

Q: When is the Right Age for Surgery on Preauricular Sinus in Children?

Hello： The preauricular sinus does not have any significant function. <br>If there is inflammation, it is recommended to wait until the infection improves before considering surgical excision to prevent recurrent inflammation and infection. <br>There is no specific age limit for

Preauricular sinus

Hello, Doctor: My daughter (2 years old) recently developed an infection in her preauricular sinus that progressed to cellulitis.
The physician suggested that after the inflammation is treated, we can proceed with surgical excision at the pediatric otolaryngology department.
I would like to ask the doctor, what age is generally recommended for children to undergo this surgery? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

A, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/02/18

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: The preauricular sinus does not have any significant function.
If there is inflammation, it is recommended to wait until the infection improves before considering surgical excision to prevent recurrent inflammation and infection.
There is no specific age limit for the surgery; however, younger patients will require general anesthesia for the procedure.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/02/18

More Info

When considering surgery for a preauricular sinus in children, the timing can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the frequency of infections, and the child's overall health. In your case, your daughter is currently two years old and has experienced a significant infection that has progressed to cellulitis. This situation necessitates careful consideration regarding the timing of surgical intervention.

Generally, there is no strict age limit for performing surgery on a preauricular sinus. The primary goal is to address the issue effectively while minimizing risks associated with anesthesia and surgery. In many cases, surgery is recommended after the child has recovered from any acute infections to prevent complications during the procedure. This is particularly important because performing surgery during an active infection can lead to increased risks of further complications, such as poor wound healing or the spread of infection.

In children, especially those under the age of three, surgery often requires general anesthesia, which can be a concern for parents. However, if the child is healthy and the surgical team is experienced in pediatric anesthesia, the risks can be managed effectively. The age at which surgery is performed can also depend on the child's development and ability to cooperate during the procedure.

For children who have recurrent infections or significant symptoms related to the preauricular sinus, surgery is often recommended sooner rather than later. This is to prevent further complications and to improve the child's quality of life. In your daughter's case, since she has already experienced a serious infection, it may be advisable to consider surgery once she has fully recovered from the current infection.
Typically, surgeons may recommend waiting until the child is at least two to three years old, as this allows for better physiological maturity and a more robust immune response, which can help in recovery. However, if the child continues to experience infections or if the sinus is causing significant issues, earlier intervention may be warranted.

In conclusion, while there is no specific age that is universally recommended for surgery on a preauricular sinus, the decision should be made based on the child's health status, the frequency and severity of infections, and the recommendations of the pediatric ENT specialist. It is crucial to have a thorough discussion with your child's healthcare provider to determine the best course of action tailored to her specific situation. They will consider all these factors and help you make an informed decision regarding the timing of the surgery.

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