Role of CO₂ laser in the management of obstructive ectopic lingual thyroids

Abstract

Ectopic lingual thyroid glands may occasionally undergo massive hypertrophyand be a source of airway obstruction. Securing the airway prior to surgery in such cases may be difficult. In the present paper, we report on two cases of obstructive ectopic lingual thyroids which were successfully managed endoscopically using CO₂ laser. The use of CO₂ laser for removal of ectopic lingual thyroid tissue offers advantages over traditionalsurgical techniques. In our opinion, removal of an appropriate amount of gland to secure an adequate airway is all that is required in most cases.