Is drain placement necessary in pediatric patients who undergo the Sistrunk procedure?

Background Thyroglossal duct cysts are usually managed with the Sistrunk procedure, which involves excision of the cervical cyst with the central portion of the hyoid bone, along with its tract. Surgical drains are commonly placed with this procedure, which necessitates postoperative hospital admission.

Objective The aim of this study is to determine if surgical drain placement is necessary in pediatric patients who underwent the Sistrunk procedure.

Methods The current study describes the outcomes of 30 consecutive children who underwent the Sistrunk procedure without drain placement. Complication rates are compared to an age-matched control group who had drains placed.

Results No major complications, including hematomas were observed in the study group; outpatient surgery was safely observed in 20 patients. No significant difference in complication rates was observed between the study and control groups.

Conclusions Routine drain placement in children who are undergoing the Sistrunk procedure may not be necessary. Subsequently, postoperative admission may be avoided.