Endoscopic cauterization for treatment of congenital pyriform sinus fistula

Abstract

Congenital pyriform sinus fistula (CPSF) is a rare branchial abnormality, presented as acute suppurative thyroiditis, recurrent neck abscess and cellulitis.In the past, the only way to cure CPSF is surgical resect of the whole lesion in the inflammation quiescent period, which always lead to many complications and high rate of recurrence.Since late 1990s, different kinds of endoscopic procedures have beeen attempted to close the inner orifice of congenital pyriform sinus fistula.After more than 10 years, endoscopic cauterization has been recommended as the first-line treatment for its safety, effective and minimally invasive.This paper introduces and summarizes the theory, procedure, advantages and disadvantages, indications and complications of endoscopic treatment of congenital pyriform sinus fistula. Key words: Congenital pyriform sinus fistula; Endoscopic procedure