A Novel Procedure for the Removal of Supernumerary or Accessory Tragus on Neonates

Abstract

BackgroundThe supernumerary or accessory tragus, first reported by Burkett in 1858 [4], is a benign congenital abnormality that typically is unilaterally present at birth (Figure 1). The embryological derivation of the tragus is the first branchial arch which also gives rise to the mandible in humans [5]. When present, the most typical appearance for these lesions is that of a nodular skin colored protrusion located in the pre-auricular region on either side of the head. Less commonly, these nodules can also be located along the line from the tragus to the angle of the mouth; along the anterior aspect of sternocleidomastoid muscle; in the cheeks; the upper sternum or on the glabella [6][7][8][9][10]. Additionally, other clinical conditions may resemble the accessory tragus, such as acrochordons or "skin tags", auricular fistulas, fibromas, polyps, epidermoid cysts, and wattles [7,11,12]. These lesions are more frequently present unilaterally, but may also be present bilaterally, and may be pedunculated or sessile [4]. These lesions may or may not contain cartilage, the presence of which is accurately confirmed with