A Case of Non-functioning Lingual Thyroid Excised with CO₂ Laser Via Transoral Approach / 대한내분비외과학회지

ABSTRACT

Lingual thyroid, characterized by presence of thyroid tissue at the base of the tongue in the region between the circumvallate papillae and the epiglottis, is the most common location for ectopic thyroid tissue. Excision of the lingual thyroid is rarely necessary. When a lingual thyroid becomes symptomatic, removal is advocated. Minimally invasive surgical techniques have been proposed for more than two decades. The use of CO₂ laser for removal of lingual thyroid offers advantages over traditional open approaches. We experienced a case of non-functioning lingual thyroid which caused dysphagia in the patient. We successfully excised it with CO₂ laser via transoral approach without any complications.