ABSTRACT

Thyroglossal duct cyst are benign cystic formations those develop due to total or partial obliteration defect of thyroglossal duct with secretuary function of the surrounding epithelium. They are usually located at the midline of the neck and move vertically during swallowing. They are usually painless and sometimes they can fistulae to skin and termed as thyroglossal fistulae. In this study we present 25 cases diagnosed as thyroglossal duct cyst and/or fistulae in our clinic. 21 out of these cases had primary, 4 had recurrent disease and all are undergone Sistrunk operation. All the cases were evaluated by detailed history, otorhinolaryngologic examination, neck ultrasonography or computed tomography. 17 of the cases (68%) were observed to have fistulae and 8 (32%) cyst formation. In 2 patients postoperative wound infection was developed and responded to antibiotic therapy. No recurrence was observed in 32 months follow up period. Thyroglossal cysts have to be operated since there is risk of malign degeneration. Sistrunk operation has the lowest recurrence rate and it is a reliable method with a low complication rate.