Vallecular cysts in clinical practice: report of two cases

The objective of the two case reports was to discuss the pathogenesis, origin, and therapeutic options for vallecular cysts. Method of Study. 2 children diagnosed in our department were treated by transoral endoscopic surgery, using cold instruments, suspension laryngoscopy and the operating microscope. Results. Both cases presented breathing and deglutition problems at diagnosis. The surgery aimed the complete excision, with cold instruments, via transoral access. No complications occurred and the postoperative healing was uneventful. No recurrences were observed on the long-term follow-up. Conclusion. Clinical, imagistic, and surgical data support the thyroglossal duct origin of vallecular cysts (base of tongue variant) and the complete excision is required to obtain long lasting cure.