Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 17, 2026

05:12
Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach for Thyroid Lobectomy
Published on: May 12, 2023
Simultaneous complete branchial and thyroglossal fistula - a rare presentation
Abhishek Jaswal1, Avik Kumar Jana, Biswajit Sikder
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Calcutta National Medical College, Kolkata, 700 014 India.
Summary
This case report details a rare simultaneous presentation of complete branchial cleft and thyroglossal duct fistulas in a 13-year-old Indian girl. Surgical management was successful after radiological identification of the internal fistula opening.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Anomalies
Background:
- Branchial cleft and thyroglossal duct anomalies are common causes of head and neck fistulas.
- Simultaneous occurrence of both types of fistulas in a single patient is exceptionally rare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of simultaneous complete branchial cleft and thyroglossal duct fistulas.
- To highlight the diagnostic and management approach for this rare condition in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 13-year-old girl with simultaneous congenital neck fistulas.
- Diagnostic workup including fistulogram to identify the internal opening of both fistulas.
- Surgical excision of both fistulous tracts.
Main Results:
- Successful surgical management of a rare case of simultaneous complete branchial cleft and thyroglossal duct fistulas.
- Radiological imaging confirmed the internal openings, aiding surgical planning.
- No recurrence reported post-operatively.
Conclusions:
- Simultaneous branchial cleft and thyroglossal duct fistulas, though rare, require thorough investigation and surgical intervention.
- This case expands the understanding of congenital head and neck anomalies, particularly in the Indian subcontinent.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric patients with complex neck fistulas.
Related Concept Videos
The Thyroid Gland
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck and covers the anterior surface of the trachea. The gland has two lateral lobes connected by a thin tissue mass called the isthmus. Internally, each lobe comprises many small spherical structures known as thyroid follicles, surrounded by a network of blood vessels.
The follicles have a central cavity lined by simple cuboidal to squamous epithelial cells called follicular cells. These cells produce the glycoprotein...
The follicles have a central cavity lined by simple cuboidal to squamous epithelial cells called follicular cells. These cells produce the glycoprotein...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Airway management is essential in emergency and surgical medicine, ensuring ventilation and oxygenation in patients who cannot maintain their own airway. Clinicians use a range of techniques and devices to secure the airway, depending on the patient’s condition and the clinical context. Key methods include endotracheal intubation, rapid sequence intubation (RSI), supraglottic airway devices, and advanced visualization aids. In cases where these approaches fail, surgical airway interventions are...

