Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new surgical method for removing thyroglossal cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that form in the neck. The method, known as gasless submental approach endoscopic removal, was tested on 13 patients and found to be safe and effective.

The surgery involved making a small incision under the chin, about 3 cm long. It took around 135 minutes on average, and there was very little blood loss - about 10 ml on average. Some patients experienced swelling or difficulty swallowing for a week after the surgery, but there weren’t any serious complications.

Patients were able to leave the hospital about three days after the surgery. They reported low levels of pain the day after the surgery, and were generally happy with their appearance six months later. In fact, they rated their satisfaction with the look of their scars and their overall appearance quite highly.

Importantly, the cysts did not come back during the follow-up period, which lasted between 9 and 15 months.

The researchers concluded that this new surgical method could be a reliable way to remove thyroglossal cysts. It appears to be safe and offers cosmetic advantages, as the scar from the incision is hidden under the chin.

FAQs

  1. What is the new surgical method for removing thyroglossal cysts?
  2. What were the results and patient satisfaction from this new surgical procedure?
  3. Did the cysts reoccur after the surgery during the follow-up period?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that the gasless submental approach endoscopic removal method for thyroglossal duct cyst removal has been shown to be safe and effective, with minimal blood loss and low levels of pain post-surgery. Patients typically experience swelling and difficulty swallowing for about a week after the surgery, but these symptoms usually resolve on their own. The incision is hidden under the chin, resulting in a more favorable cosmetic outcome compared to other surgical methods. Additionally, the risk of the cyst returning after surgery is low based on the study findings. It is important for patients to follow post-operative care instructions provided by their healthcare team to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for thyroglossal duct cyst removal are those who have symptomatic cysts, such as difficulty swallowing, breathing, or speaking, as well as recurrent infections or persistent swelling in the neck. Additionally, patients with large cysts or those who are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of the cyst may also be recommended for surgical removal. It is important for patients to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their specific situation.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after thyroglossal duct cyst removal would typically involve:

Before surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a healthcare provider to discuss symptoms and determine the need for surgery.
  2. Pre-operative testing and evaluation to assess the patient’s overall health and fitness for surgery.
  3. Education about the procedure, potential risks, and post-operative care instructions.

During surgery:

  1. Gasless submental approach endoscopic removal surgery, which involves making a small incision under the chin and removing the cyst.
  2. The surgery typically takes around 135 minutes with minimal blood loss.
  3. Patients may experience swelling or difficulty swallowing for a week after the surgery.

After surgery:

  1. Patients are able to leave the hospital about three days after the surgery.
  2. Low levels of pain are reported the day after the surgery.
  3. Patients may experience cosmetic advantages, as the scar from the incision is hidden under the chin.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the cyst does not return.
  5. Patients report high satisfaction with their appearance and the outcome of the surgery six months later.
  6. The cysts do not return during the follow-up period, which typically lasts between 9 and 15 months.

Overall, the new surgical method for removing thyroglossal cysts appears to be safe, effective, and reliable, providing patients with a positive outcome and improved quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about thyroglossal duct cyst removal using gasless submental approach endoscopic removal may include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgical method?
  2. How long will the recovery period be, and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort after the surgery?
  3. Will there be any visible scarring after the procedure, and how can I minimize the appearance of the scar?
  4. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  5. What are the chances of the cyst coming back after the procedure?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for removing the thyroglossal duct cyst?
  7. How many times have you performed this specific surgical method for thyroglossal duct cyst removal?
  8. What is the success rate of this surgical method in terms of completely removing the cyst?
  9. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions that I need to follow to ensure a smooth recovery?
  10. How soon will I be able to resume normal activities and return to work after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Zeng Q, Ma W, Liu C, Wu J, Wang XQ, Wang ZH, Zhu J, Hu GH. Journal: Zhonghua Er Bi Yan Hou Tou Jing Wai Ke Za Zhi. 2023 Feb 7;58(2):145-150. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn115330-20220608-00339. PMID: 36748156