Pre-auricular Sinus | The Little Surgery

What are pre-auricular sinus?

The exact cause of pre-auricular sinus is not fully understood. It is believed to arise during fetal development, possibly due to incomplete fusion or closure of certain structures during the formation of the ear.

What causes pre-auricular sinus?

The exact cause of pre-auricular sinus is not fully understood. It is believed to arise during fetal development, possibly due to incomplete fusion or closure of certain structures during the formation of the ear.

What are the symptoms of pre-auricular sinus?

Pre-auricular sinus may not always cause symptoms and is often discovered incidentally during routine physical examinations.

However, it can sometimes become infected or cause other complications, leading to symptoms such as:

Recurrent or persistent infections: The sinus may become inflamed, red, and painful due to infection.
Discharge: Pus or fluid may drain from the sinus opening.
Swelling or abscess formation: In some cases, an abscess or collection of pus may develop near the pre-auricular sinus.
Enlargement or inflammation of nearby lymph nodes: Infections may cause lymph nodes around the ear and neck to become tender or swollen.

How to treat pre-auricular sinus?

The treatment approach for pre-auricular sinus in paediatric surgery may depend on the severity of symptoms and the frequency of infections.

Treatment options include:

Antibiotics: If there is an active infection or abscess, antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection.
Incision and Drainage: If there is an abscess, a surgical procedure may be performed to open and drain the abscess.
Surgical Excision: In cases where the pre-auricular sinus is causing recurrent infections or other complications, surgical excision may be recommended. This involves removing the sinus tract and any associated infected or abnormal tissue.
Follow-up Care: After surgery, regular follow-up visits may be required to monitor healing and ensure proper wound care. In some cases, additional treatments such as antibiotic ointments or saltwater rinses may be recommended.

It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a paediatric surgeon or otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), to assess the specific circumstances of the pre-auricular sinus in a paediatric patient. They will provide appropriate treatment recommendations based on their expertise and the individual situation.

For more information, contact Dr Ong. Book an appointment today!