A new technique for the excision of the first branchial cleft fistula--turn-inside-out method of the fistula.

Conventional surgery of the first branchial cleft fistula has been highly complicated. Especially the management of the facial nerve and the complete removal of the fistula in the ear canal side were very difficult. According to the anatomical and embryological studies, we designed a new operative technique. We applied this method successfully in two cases, and we consider it to be very safe, easy and effective.