Accessory Parotid Gland Fistula and Abscess

Abstract

An accessory duct fistula and an accessory parotid gland abscess are surgical complications known to occur following parotid gland surgery1 but have also been reported after other operations, such as rhytidectomy.2 These cases are socially embarrassing for the patient and difficult for a surgeon to treat. The author presents a complication from draining an accessory parotid abscess and excising a cheek cyst. This is the first report of such a case. In addition, excising a cheek cyst is not a simple task and can result in a complication that is difficult to treat. Good knowledge of facial anatomy, particularly the surface anatomy of the vital structures, and the use of magnification will help prevent such rare complications.