Endoscope-assisted concurrent resection of thyroglossal duct cysts and benign thyroid nodules via a small submental incisions

The objective of this study was to evaluate the technique of endoscope-assisted concurrent resection of thyroglossal duct cysts and benign thyroid nodules via a small submental incision. Endoscope-assisted thyroglossal duct cyst excision and subtotal thyroidectomy were performed via a small submental incision in six patients with thyroglossal duct cysts and benign nodular thyroid lesions. The thyroglossal duct cysts and thyroid lesions were completely excised. The incisions were 3–4 cm in length, and the mean operation time was 84 ± 11 min. The mean volume of blood loss was 19 ± 5 mL. Postoperative pathological examination findings confirmed the diagnosis of thyroglossal duct cyst in all patients. The thyroid lesions were nodular goiter in three patients and thyroid adenoma in three patients. No postoperative complications such as hematoma, pharyngeal fistula, hypocalcemia, recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis, or dysphagia were observed. No changes in the planned surgical procedure were required, and no recurrent lesions were detected during follow-up. In conclusion, patients with thyroglossal duct cysts and benign thyroid lesions can be treated by endoscopic excision via a small submental incision, thereby avoiding large neck incisions and resulting in better postoperative cosmetic outcomes.