Thyroglossal Duct Cyst

What is a thyroglossal dust cyst? A thyroglossal duct cyst is a freely movable cystic mass that lies high in the neck at the midline and is attached to the base of the tongue. It is a remnant of fetal development.

How is a thyroglossal duct cyst treated? An incision is made in the center of the neck and the cyst is removed. The mid portion of the hyoid bone may also be removed. This is a day surgery operation and your child will go home the same day.

	Thyroglossal duct cyst: this cyst is infected and in need of treatment.
	Possible locations of thyroglossal duct cysts (represented by circles) seen in side view of neck.