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Modified approach for lingual thyroid transposition: report of two cases
Zhong Xing Wu1, Li Wu Zheng, Yao Jun Dong
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatolgy, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China.
Summary
Surgical transposition of lingual thyroid (a rare congenital anomaly) to the mouth floor is effective. A transoral approach offers better cosmetic results for treating this ectopic thyroid tissue.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Surgical Oncology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Lingual thyroid is a rare congenital anomaly caused by incomplete migration of the thyroglossal duct.
- Ectopic thyroid tissue in the tongue base presents unique diagnostic and surgical challenges.
- Association with fetal adenoma is exceptionally rare, complicating management.
Observation:
- Two cases of lingual thyroid are presented, one with a coexisting fetal adenoma.
- Surgical transposition of the ectopic thyroid gland to the floor of the mouth was performed in both cases.
- Different surgical approaches were utilized: extraoral in Case 1 and transoral in Case 2.
Findings:
- Both transposed lingual thyroids achieved normal function post-surgery, with follow-ups of 16 years and 6 months.
- The transoral approach in Case 2 resulted in no visible scarring, offering superior cosmetic outcomes.
- Surgical transposition preserves the gland's vascular supply, ensuring functional viability.
Implications:
- Surgical transposition of lingual thyroid is a viable treatment option for this rare anomaly.
- The transoral degloving approach is recommended for its favorable cosmetic results and functional preservation.
- This technique offers a promising solution for managing ectopic thyroid tissue, particularly when associated with adenomas.
