Endoscope-Assisted Intraoral Removal of Ectopic Thyroid Tissue Using a Frenotomy Incision

Abstract

Background: Ectopic thyroid tissue is a relatively rare condition and a developmental anomaly characterized by the aggregation of thyroid tissue. Usually, it occurs along the path of descent of the developing thyroid primordium from the foramen caecum, the most common being in the anterior midline of the neck at or below the level of the hyoid bone. Surgical removal of ectopic thyroid tissue is usually accomplished through an external incision in the neck. However, this procedure inevitably results in a neck scar. Methods: We report the case of a 30-year-old woman with ectopic thyroid tissue. We implemented a modified approach to ectopic thyroid tissue removal through a frenotomy incision of the mouth using an endoscope system. Results: A modified approach to ectopic thyroid tissue removal was used in this patient. The total operative time was 50 minutes, and the patient remains free of disease 15 months after excision. Conclusion: Resection of ectopic thyroid tissue can be performed by a transoral endoscope-assisted approach through a frenotomy incision of the mouth.