Management of incidental thyroglossal duct cysts during laryngotracheal reconstruction

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2006 May;70(5):875-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2005.09.028. Epub 2005 Nov 18.

Abstract

Thyroglossal duct cysts originate from trapped elements of the thyroglossal duct tract during embryological descent of the thyroid gland. The incidental finding of a thyroglossal duct cyst during cervical surgery has not been described previously. We present four cases of small asymptomatic thyroglossal duct cysts discovered as an incidental finding during laryngotracheal reconstruction. In each case, the cyst was removed using a Sistrunk procedure. In all four cases the patient was successfully decannulated, and there were no cases of cyst recurrence. We also consider the implications that these four cases may have on the perceived incidence of the thyroglossal duct cysts and their management.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings*
  • Infant
  • Intraoperative Period
  • Larynx / surgery
  • Male
  • Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures*
  • Thyroglossal Cyst / diagnosis*
  • Thyroglossal Cyst / surgery*
  • Trachea / surgery