A Large Adult Postcricoid Lymphatic Malformation: A Case Report and Literature Review

Adult-onset lymphatic malformations arising at the postcricoid, a subsite of the hypopharynx, are sporadic. Only one case has been previously reported. In this study, we presented a 36-year-old female presented with globus sensation, dysphagia, and upper airway obstruction, requiring a tracheostomy. A computed tomography scan identified a 5 cm × 4.5 cm × 3 cm multilocular hypodense lesion in the postcricoid. Due to its considerable size, complete resection with function preservation was crucial, and a standard microscopic direct laryngoscopy approach may result in inadequate exposure, while an open transcervical approach may affect functional outcomes and increase surgical complications. We successfully performed an en bloc resection with a transoral endoscopic approach, using laryngeal suspension and a laparoscopic ultrasonic scalpel to preserve aerodigestive functions, ensure rapid recovery, and avoid neck scarring. The patient was decannulated within 2 weeks and remained disease-free after 1 year. The reported cases of adult-onset lymphatic malformations at the postcricoid and hypopharynx were reviewed and summarized for educational purposes.