[Branchiogenic anomalies (with special reference to severe and complicated outcome)].

Lateral cervical fistulae are usually described as examples for inborn branchiogenic anomalies. They result from evolutionary disorders of the first and second branchiogenic arch. Four patients were seen with cervical fistulae, three of those having a recurrence after surgical treatment. After a short review of the evolution and the topographic anatomy of such cysts and ducts, four patients are presented with all the details regarding their partially very complicated history.