Lingual thyroglossal duct cyst: a unique surgical approach

Thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) is one of the more common causes of a pediatric neck mass. Lingual TGDC, which is located at the base of the tongue, is an unusual variant. Because of the oral pharyngeal location, lingual TGDC may cause dysphagia and respiratory distress. Previous investigators have advocated the use of a formal Sistrunk procedure for lingual TGDC. Herein the authors describe three children with a lingual TGDC in whom marsupialization of the cyst was performed, without excision. The follow-up period ranges from 2 to 5 years, and there has been no recurrence. Because of the low morbidity and high success rate associated with this approach, the authors recommend it for the treatment of lingual TGDC.