PHARYNGEAL LOCALIZATIONS OF BRANCHIAL CYSTS

Two cases with unusual pharyngeal localizations of branchial cysts med ial to the great neck vessels and pharyngeal constrictor muscle are pr esented. The authors reviewed the theories of origin of the branchial cysts and the surgical treatment options. In their first case the tran soral approach was chosen. Because of previous unsuccessful attempts a t surgical treatment, the pharyngeal cyst was extremely adherent to ad jacent tissue with much scar tissue, and it was very difficult to remo ve. As a result of this disappointing operation, an external neck expl oration was indicated in the second patient. Histological examinations confirmed that the excised cysts were branchial in both cases.