Thyroglossal duct and other congenital midline cervical anomalies

Thyroglossal duct anomalies and dermoid cysts comprise the vast majority of congenital midline cervical masses seen in children. Unusual lesions of the midline neck include ranulae and midline cervical clefts. Workup and management is lesion-dependent, and an accurate preoperative diagnosis is essential for planning and performing an appropriate surgical procedure. This discussion presents an overview of the relevant embryology, pathophysiology, and diagnostic modalities for these congenital midline cervical anomalies. Additionally, the current principles of surgical management are described.