Thyroglossal duct cyst excision, also known as the Sistrunk procedure, is a surgical procedure to remove a benign cyst that develops along the thyroglossal duct track. The thyroglossal duct track is located between the tongue and the interior neck. Although these cysts are noncancerous, it is important to remove them to prevent them from returning. The procedure involves making an incision over the neck mass and dissecting it down to locate and remove the cyst and its associated tract.
When is This Procedure Necessary?
A thyroglossal duct cyst excision procedure may become medically necessary if the cyst causes symptoms such as recurrent infections, pain, or difficulty swallowing due to the size of the cyst. However many medical professionals advise that patients undergo this procedure to ensure the cyst does not continuously return.
Before a thyroglossal duct excision, patients will undergo treatment for the infection. Surgical removal is not possible until the underlying infection is addressed or else it could result in a more difficult, complicated surgery. Doctors will typically prescribe antibiotics before scheduling a thyroglossal duct cyst excision.
Patients are under general anesthesia to ensure their comfort throughout the procedure. The surgeon will make a small incision over the cyst, located over the midline of the neck. Next, the surgeon uses specialized tools to surgically remove the entire cyst along with any associated tracts or sinuses. When the goal of the procedure has been achieved, the surgeon will close the incision and the patient will be removed from anesthesia.
The surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment 2-3 weeks after the procedure to track the patient’s progress. It is normal for patients to experience pain after the surgery, and they will be given pain medication to manage their discomfort. Patients should consult their doctor if they experience any irregular symptoms.
At Smith Medical, we understand the complexities of healthcare. Today, many procedures and treatments are unattainable due to their lofty price. The average cost of this is a number that a limited amount of the population can afford. Therefore, it is Smith Medical’s mission to provide our patients with the accessible, transparent, and quality care they deserve.
Contact the team at Smith Medical to learn more today.
