Transposition of a lingual thyroid to the submandibular space using a modified technique.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

We report a modified surgical technique for transplanting an ectopic, lingual thyroid to the submandibular space, in order to maintain thyroid function while relieving obstructive symptoms.

CASE REPORT:

A 52-year-old woman complained of progressive dysphagia and dyspnoea. Ectopic lingual thyroid tissue was diagnosed. The ectopic thyroid gland was transplanted into the submandibular region via a lateral pharyngeal approach. A random muscle pedicle was prepared to provide a vascular supply to the transposed gland.

RESULTS:

Twelve-month follow up confirmed the survival of the transplanted thyroid gland, with preserved thyroid function.

CONCLUSION:

Surgical transplantation of a lingual thyroid to the submandibular region offers an alternative treatment method for this anomaly, which avoids the need for resection and lifelong thyroxine replacement.

• Authors: Tingwei Bao, Huiming Wang, Dong Wei, Di Yu
• Journal: The Journal of laryngology and otology (J Laryngol Otol) Vol. 126 Issue 12 Pg. 1287-91 (Dec 2012) ISSN: 1748-5460 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 23168214 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Deglutition Disorders (etiology, surgery)
• Dyspnea (etiology, surgery)
• Female
• Humans
• Lingual Thyroid (surgery)
• Middle Aged
• Thyroid Gland (physiology, transplantation)