Management outcome of thyroglossal cyst in a tertiary health center in Southwest Nigeria

Thyroglossal duct cyst is a non-odontogenic congenital developmental cyst. It is predominantly a midline anterior neck swelling in children and total excision of the tracts prevents recurrence. Retrospective hospital record analysis of patients managed with histopathology results of thyroglossal cyst between 2003 and 2018. Comparing outcomes and technique of thyroglossal cyst excision in a resource challenged environment. A total of 37 patients comprising 22(59.5%) males and 15(40.5%) females (M:F 1.4:1) with age range of 13 days to 55 years (median 6 years) were managed. The majority were children less than 10 years of age. They all presented with a fluctuant midline progressive anterior neck swelling, in addition to anterior neck ulcer 1(2.7%), discharging sinuses 3(8.1%) and thyroglossal cyst duct infections, which were managed successfully with antibiotics. Central compartment neck dissection with excision of mid-portion of the hyoid bone was performed in all the patients. Rupture of thyroglossal duct cysts was observed in 7(18.9%) at surgery, but there was no recurrence. Surgical drain was not used and most patients were discharged within 48 hours postoperatively. Thyroglossal duct cyst was confirmed at histology without any evidence of mitotic changes. There was no recurrence for the Sistrunk's procedure in all specialties. The modification of the Sistrunk's procedure with mid-anterior neck dissection is effective in excising a thyroglossal duct cyst, hence preventing recurrence. Non-usage of wound drains and short hospital stay are cost effective.