Thyroglossal-duct lesions in childhood.

A retrospective review of 300 cases of thyroglossal duct lesions is presented, with emphasis on reasons for misdiagnosis and recurrence. Of 28 cases misdiagnosed, 20 presented in atypical sites. The recurrence rate after Sistrunk's operation was 5% but no special features could be identified to explain these recurrences. While previous surgery does reduce the chance of success, inflammation does not seem to affect the recurrence rate.