Congenital Cysts and Fistulae of the Neck

Abstract

After an anatomical and clinical review of congenital lateral and medial cysts and fistulae the operative methods are discussed. The material consists of 42 cases; 25 of them being lateral and 17 medial. After operative treatment there were no recurrences in lateral cysts and fistulae, while in medial abnormalities the recurrence occurred in six cases. In complete lateral fistulae the operative method presented of v. Hacker is recommended. In thyroglossal cysts and fistulae the middle portion of the hyoid bone should always be removed.