Clinical and Surgical Management of Pediatric Branchial and Congenital Anomalies of the Head and Neck

Congenital anomalies of the head and neck manifest from errors in its complex embryology developing into mature structures. These abnormalities may herald at birth or become evident later in life, even to the tenth decade. The results of aberrant development may be difficult to diagnose, but knowledge of the relevant embryological pathways is key to identification and successful treatment. This chapter reviews the anomalies of the embryonic neck tissues: the branchial apparatus, skin and adnexal tissues, mesoderm, and skeleton.