First branchial cleft anomalies: report of 12 cases.

First branchial cleft anomalies account for only 1-8% of all branchial anomalies. Several classification systems have been proposed to aid in the diagnosis of these defects. We present a series of 12 patients with first branchial cleft anomalies classified according to anatomic criteria. The preferred treatment is complete excision. For patients with acutely inflamed masses, surgery should be performed only after resolution of the infection has been achieved with adequate drainage in combination with antibiotic therapy.