A Cross-Sectional Evaluation of Outcomes of Pediatric Thyroglossal Duct Cyst Excision

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDCs) are the most common form of congenital neck cysts. They may become infected causing dysphagia or respiratory distress. Accordingly, the treatment is always surgical removal. <b><i>Objectives:</i></b> The objectives of this article were to examine complications following TGDC excision by surgical specialty, demographics, and comorbid conditions. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A retrospective review of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was performed. Pediatric cases from January 1, 2014 to November 1, 2015 with a current procedure terminology code of 60,280 (excision of TGDC or sinus) were included. Statistical analysis was performed to assess associations between complications and surgical specialty, demographics, and comorbidities. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Of the 867 cases that met inclusion criteria, the median age was 4 years. There were 448 males (52.3%) and 408 females (47.7%). Thirty-six patients (4.2%) experienced at least one 30-day complication. The most predominant complications were reoperation (19 patients, 2.2%), readmission (18 patients, 2.1%), and surgical site infection (16 patients, 1.9%). There was no statistically significant difference between complications and surgical specialty. In those experiencing a complication, there was a statistically significant difference between males (86.1%) and females (13.9%). Of patients with at least one comorbidity, 36.67% had a complication, while 17.22% did not have a complication. There was also a statistically significant difference in the percentage of patients with a past medical history of asthma between those with at least one complication (16.67%) compared to those without any complications (4.76%). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> excision is a generally safe procedure across surgical specialties. There is a higher complication rate in males compared to females as well as those with a history of at least one medical comorbidity and those with asthma. The most common 30-day complications are reoperation, readmission, and surgical site infection.