Thyroglossal ducts, cysts and sinuses: a recurrent problem.

A review of a series of 63 patients suggests that a high incidence of recurrence occurs following surgery for this condition. Histological examination demonstrates that this is due to failure to remove the central portion of hyoid bone and inadequate dissection of the tract into the tongue base. To overcome these problems, an en bloc anterior neck dissection is recommended which will encompass multiple duct formation associated with the tract.