Should My Child Undergo Surgery for Preauricular Sinus Removal?

Preauricular sinus

My daughter, who is 5 years old and in kindergarten, is scheduled to undergo excision of preauricular sinus at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.
I would like to know if this procedure is advisable, considering she does not have any inflammation but often has foul-smelling discharge.
I am concerned that this might affect her self-esteem, as her classmates have told her, "You smell, don't play with her." Additionally, how long will it take for the wound to heal after the surgery, and how many days of rest will she need? Will it be too painful for a child to have both preauricular sinuses removed at the same time? Thank you.

Qing Yun Mama, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/06

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology

From your letter, it is clear that you are a very caring mother, as you are attentive to your child's psychological issues.
Therefore, regarding whether to proceed with surgery, I suggest discussing and evaluating this with your attending physician.
The incision typically heals within 1 to 3 weeks, depending on individual health factors.
Postoperative wounds usually do not cause significant pain.
Best regards, Hook.

Reply Date: 2006/02/06

More Info

When considering whether your child should undergo surgery for the removal of a preauricular sinus, there are several factors to take into account. A preauricular sinus is a small pit or opening near the front of the ear, which can sometimes become infected or produce discharge. In your daughter's case, it seems that she is experiencing some odor and discharge, but she has not had any infections.
From a medical perspective, the decision to proceed with surgery often depends on the frequency and severity of symptoms. If the preauricular sinus is causing recurrent infections or significant discomfort, surgical removal is typically recommended. However, in cases where the sinus is asymptomatic or only occasionally produces discharge without infection, some physicians may suggest a watchful waiting approach.
In your daughter's situation, the concern about potential self-esteem issues due to the odor and comments from peers is valid. Children can be sensitive to how they are perceived by their classmates, and addressing this issue proactively may help prevent emotional distress in the future. Surgical removal of the preauricular sinus could alleviate the odor and any associated stigma, allowing her to feel more confident among her peers.

Regarding the surgery itself, it is generally a straightforward outpatient procedure. The recovery time can vary, but most children can return to normal activities within a few days. The surgical site will typically heal within one to two weeks, depending on the individual’s healing response and care taken post-surgery. Your child may experience some discomfort, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications as recommended by the surgeon.

As for the question of whether to perform the surgery on both sides at once, this is often determined by the surgeon's assessment and the child's overall health. Performing bilateral surgery can be more efficient and reduce the need for multiple anesthetic exposures, but it may also lead to increased discomfort post-operatively. Discussing these concerns with the surgeon will provide you with a clearer understanding of the risks and benefits specific to your child's case.

In summary, if your daughter is experiencing issues with odor and discharge from the preauricular sinus, and especially if it is affecting her self-esteem, surgery may be a beneficial option. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with the surgeon about the procedure, recovery expectations, and any concerns you may have regarding pain management and the potential for performing the surgery on both sides. Ultimately, the decision should be made collaboratively, considering both medical advice and your child's emotional well-being.

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