Abstract:ObjectiveTo study the choice of surgical time and treatment for the infective third branchial fistula.MethodsClinical data of 9 patients suffering from infective third branchial fistula surgically treated in our hospital between 2010 and 2015 were analyzed retrospectively. Neck dissection was carried out in all 9 cases.ResultsDuring operation, obvious inner orificium was detected in 3 cases. The wound healed properly in all patients without infection. They were followed up for 6 to 54 months (mean 24 months) postoperatively, and no recurrence occurred.ConclusionsSurgical operation is an effective treatment method for the infective third branchial fistula. Accurate diagnosis, proper choice of surgical time and radical resection of the fistula tissue are the key points to improve the cure rate and prevent recurrence.