Day theatre procedure
About this service
Thyroglossal cyst or fistula excision is surgery to remove a thyroglossal cyst or fistula, a swelling that forms in the front of the neck from tissue left over from before birth, and it is available in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic. These cysts are usually painless midline neck lumps that move when you swallow or stick out your tongue, and while harmless, they can become infected or grow larger over time, which is when removal is usually recommended.
The surgery takes place in our on-site day theatre under general anaesthesia. Your doctor will examine the neck and confirm the diagnosis before advising on surgical removal.
What to expect
- A neck examination, sometimes with imaging, to confirm the diagnosis
- Under general anaesthesia the cyst is removed together with the middle part of the hyoid bone and its tract, which lowers the chance of it returning
- Some swelling and a neck dressing is expected for a few days after
- Your doctor will advise on wound care and follow-up to check healing
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A painless lump in the middle of the front of the neck
- A neck swelling that moves up and down when swallowing
- A recurring infected or draining lump in the front of the neck
- A congenital neck lump present since childhood that has grown
- A fistula or opening on the neck that discharges fluid
Frequently asked questions
Why is part of the hyoid bone removed with a thyroglossal cyst?
The cyst forms along a tract that passes through the middle of the hyoid bone in the neck. Removing that segment with the cyst clears the whole tract and is the accepted way to stop the cyst coming back.
Can a thyroglossal cyst be removed in a child?
Yes, these cysts are often found in children and removal is commonly done in childhood, especially after an infection. Your doctor will confirm the diagnosis and may check thyroid function first.
What will the scar look like after thyroglossal cyst removal?
The incision is placed horizontally in a skin crease of the front of the neck so it fades into a natural line. It is usually a few centimetres long and softens over several months.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek is equipped for thyroglossal cyst and fistula excisions, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided on site. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your thyroglossal cyst or fistula excision?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.