Recurrent cervical stitch sinus arising from the deep neck space after thyroidectomy: case study and review

Abstract

Objective: We describe a one-stage surgical technique for the management of recurrent cervical stitch sinus after thyroidectomy. Method: A retrospective, single-centre study of all patients who were operated on because of cervical neck sinus after thyroidectomy. We provide a detailed description of our surgical approach, based on guided sinus removal after prior tract staining with methylene blue and subsequent obliteration using local strap muscle flap. Results: A total of seven patients with a mean age of 46 years were included in the study. All patients had a past history of thyroidectomy because of goitre (n=5) or thyroid cancer (n=2) which had previously been unsuccessfully debrided two or three times. Surgical sinus removal was successful in all cases and no recurrence was observed during the follow-up time. Conclusions: We conclude that a comprehensive en bloc resection down to the suture granuloma is essential in order to provide surgical cure and prevent recurrence.