Aidan's Thyroglossal Duct Cyst Surgery

 On August 5th, little Aidan had a cyst removed from his thyroid.

It was not hurting him or painful to him at all but it was getting bigger. The doctor thought it would be best to remove it now while he is young, to reduce the chances of it getting bigger and the possibility of it growing back.  Thanks to all of our families prayers and Heavenly Father's protection, the surgery went great and he was ready to  get back to watching  iCarly and tormenting his sister very soon after.

 

Thyroglossal Duct Cyst

What is a thyroglossal duct cyst?

A thyroglossal duct cyst is a neck mass or lump that develops from cells and tissues remaining after the formation of the thyroid gland during embryonic development. It is most commonly diagnosed in preschool-aged children or during mid-adolescence, and often appears after an upper respiratory infection when it enlarges and becomes painful.

What causes a thyroglossal duct cyst?

A thyroglossal duct cyst is a congenital (present from birth) defect. When the thyroid gland forms during embryonic development, it begins at the base of the tongue and moves down the neck through a canal called the thyroglossal duct. This duct normally disappears once the thyroid reaches its final position in the neck. Sometimes, portions of the duct remain leaving cavities or pockets called cysts. These cysts can fill with fluid or mucus, and may enlarge if they become infected. Very enlarged cysts can cause difficulty swallowing or obstruct breathing passages.