Preauricular fistula, Otolaryngology FAQ

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Understanding Preauricular Sinus: Genetic Concerns and Reproductive Choices

Preauricular sinus The occurrence of preauricular sinuses is caused by embryonic developmental abnormalities. For example, a person in their twenties, of marriageable age, has preauricular sinuses in both ears and underwent surgery for a salivary gland cyst in childhood. It is un...


Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
Among preauricular fistula, salivary gland cysts, and hearing impairment, only hearing impairment has been confirmed as a hereditary condition that can be excluded through genetic testing. Wishing you peace and health.

[Read More] Understanding Preauricular Sinus: Genetic Concerns and Reproductive Choices


Understanding Sudden Swelling in Front of the Left Ear

A lump in front of the left ear? Hello, doctor. Sometimes I notice a lump forming just in front of my left ear (under the skin), but it disappears on its own after several days. When I press on it, I can feel it, but it’s not painful. This has happened multiple times, and I would...


Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
Typically, a preauricular fistula becomes swollen only when it is inflamed. Wishing you well.

[Read More] Understanding Sudden Swelling in Front of the Left Ear


Managing Recurrent Preauricular Sinus: Seeking Long-Term Solutions

The preauricular sinus has recurrent episodes despite multiple surgeries? The preauricular sinus was previously excised, but it recurred after six months. During the summer vacation, I underwent debridement at the hospital, but it recurred again during the winter vacation. I quic...


Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, the complete excision of a recurrent preauricular fistula is indeed quite challenging. If possible, using antibiotics to suppress the infection first, and then performing a complete excision without infection, or even partially excising the fistula that invades the ear car...

[Read More] Managing Recurrent Preauricular Sinus: Seeking Long-Term Solutions


Post-Surgery Concerns for Preauricular Sinus: Healing and Care

Preauricular sinus - postoperative issues! Question: If the preauricular sinus is not sutured properly, will it bleed? If the wound is not completely closed, will the scar be unsightly in the future? Is a 7-day period for suture removal too long? Why is there swelling behind the ...


Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
The preauricular fistula does not have a fixed trajectory, making it difficult to predict the suture location in advance. The fistula resembles underground tree roots, which can extend in various directions. When the physician removes the visible portion, they typically align the...

[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns for Preauricular Sinus: Healing and Care


Understanding Preauricular Sinus: Congenital vs. Acquired Causes

I would like to inquire about issues related to preauricular sinuses? Dear Dr. Hsu, I would like to inquire about the etiology of preauricular sinuses. Are they congenital conditions or acquired? A family member of mine underwent surgery for the removal of a preauricular sinus, ...


Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, generally speaking, when the embryo develops to three months of age, the six hillocks derived from the first and second pharyngeal arches will fuse to form the future auricle. If they do not fuse completely, a fistula may remain on the outer e...

[Read More] Understanding Preauricular Sinus: Congenital vs. Acquired Causes