Endoscopic Ectopic Thyroidectomy

Ab s t r Ac t Aim and objective: To show the advantage of endoscopic approach for lateral ectopic thyroid removal. Background: Ectopic thyroid tissue lateral to midline is very rare. Because of its unusual location, lateral ectopic thyroid gland can cause diagnostic difficulties when diseased. Case description: Here we are presenting a case of a male patient with submandibular ectopic thyroid tissue with multinodular goiter and absent thyroid tissue in normal anatomic site. He underwent endoscopic-assisted total thyroidectomy. This technique for ectopic thyroid removal has not been reported in the literature so far. Conclusion: Endoscopic approach for removal of the diseased gland will allow for a magnified view of the adjoining structures and better cosmesis for the patient. Clinical significance: Lateral ectopic thyroid should be in differential diagnosis of lateral neck swelling.