Figure 1

Sometimes as the thyroid migrates, it drags some of the lining of the pharynx. A cyst may form at the base of the thyroid along the route of migration (see Figure 1). A thyroglossal duct cyst is then produced.

A thyroglossal cyst usually appears between ages 2 - 10. It is found equally in both girls and boys. The main risk of a thyroglossal duct cyst is infection. Bacteria from the mouth may cause the cyst to become infected.

• The cyst is seen as a mass in the middle of the neck.
• The cyst is round and firm with no opening.
• The cyst usually does not cause any pain.
• The cyst moves up when the tongue is stuck out of the mouth or with swallowing.
• Occasionally the cyst can be seen to one side or other of the breathing tube.
• Bacteria from the mouth may infect the thyroglossal duct cyst causing sudden swelling of the cyst and redness or tenderness in the area of the cyst.

• General anesthesia is used. Most children go home the same day unless there are any breathing problems or a small drain is placed in the wound. In those cases, your child may need to stay overnight.
• You will meet the anesthesia doctor and the surgeon again on the day of surgery.
• After surgery, your child will stay in the Day Surgery Unit until he/she is ready to go home. Parents are welcome to stay with their child during this time.

• You will be given a written instruction sheet before you go home telling you how to care for your child.
• Most children have some discomfort after the operation. The doctor may prescribe pain medicine. Give pain medicine as prescribed and instructed by your doctor and nurse.
• It is usually not necessary to remove stitches. They are under the skin and dissolve on their own.
• A clear waterproof dressing or bandage may be applied to the incision.
• Your child may shower or have a sponge bath at home one to two days after surgery.
• Your child's doctor will ask you to make a follow-up appointment about 2 weeks after the surgery to check how the area is healing.

• Your child's surgery will be schedule in the near future. You will receive a pamphlet with information about the day of surgery when the date is set.
• Before the surgery, if the area becomes red, tender, swollen, or drains, please call the surgeon.