THYROGLOSSAL DUCT CYSTS: OUT COME OF SISTRUNK OPERATION

Abstract

Background: Thyroglossal duct cyst is the most common cause of congenital neck swelling. The recurrence rate
of thyroglossal duct cysts removed by Sistrunk or other procedures is 4% and 50% respectively. The objectives
of this study were to determine the gender & age distribution, laterality & location of thyroglossal duct cysts and
outcome of Sistrunk Operation in the management of thyroglossal duct cysts in terms of recurrence.
Material & Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out from June 2009 to July 2012 at Departments
of ENT, KGNawaz Hospital, Bannu and MMM Teaching Hospital, Dera Ismail Khan. All confirmed cases of thyroglossal
duct cysts were included in the study. Sistrunk operation was done in all patients. Variables were gender,
age, laterality and location of the cysts and recurrence of the disease. Follow up was for 6 months to see for any
recurrence. Statistical analysis was done giving frequency and percentage.
Results: Out of 25 patients of thyroglossal duct cysts, 8 (32%) were males and 17(68%) were females with maleto-
female ratio of 1:2.1. Mean age of the patients was 15.13 ± 4.83 with a range of 6-35 years. The commonest
age group involved was 11-15 years with frequency of 10 (40%). The laterality of cysts was midline in 20 (80%)
and lateral in 5 (20%) patients. Most of the thyroglossal duct cysts were located in the infrahyoid position 11
(44%). Recurrence rate after the Sistrunk procedure was 2 (8%).
Conclusion: Recurrence of thyroglossal duct cyst remains low when the Sistrunk procedure is employed.