Complications associated with the Sistrunk procedure

Objective: To assess the type and rate of complications in the postoperative period of pediatric patients undergoing the Sistrunk procedure. Study Design: A retrospective review of patients with a diagnosis of thyroglossal duct cyst who had not had corrective surgery previously. An attempt to standardize the study was made as follows: all patients had surgery under the direction of one surgeon, using the Sistrunk procedure with minor modifications from its original description. Complications were divided into major and minor categories. Methods: Charts were reviewed for age, sex, preoperative assessment, and postoperative follow-up. Complications were recorded. A postoperative telephone survey was conducted. Results: A minor complication rate of 29% was observed. There were no recurrences or major complications. Conclusions: The Sistrunk procedure remains the operation of choice for removal of the thyroglossal duct cyst. When the surgery is properly performed, with attention to key surgical landmarks, the risk of major complication is minimal. Complications that do occur are minor and wound related.