Publication:

Outcome of ultrasound guided closed drainage of acute suppurative thyroid abscess as a definitive treatment modality

Background Thyroid abscess are relatively uncommon conditions in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery because of thyroid glands anatomical and physiological protective barrier. When it occurs it results in significant morbidity with potential mortality. Traditionally, surgical incision and drainage with antibiotics has been the mainstay of treatment. Some reports have suggested that ultrasound guided closed drainage is a less invasive and effective alternative in selected cases. The aim of our study is to evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound guided percutaneous closed drainage in the management of thyroid abscess.

Methods From January 2013 to December 2016, patients presenting with thyroid abscess to the department of otolaryngology at Adichunchanagiri hospital and who subsequently underwent ultrasound guided percutaneous closed drainage were included in the study.

Results Five patients were recruited for the study. After the aspiration of pus under ultrasound guidance, all patients were symptomatically improved and no patients needed open surgical drainage afterwards. After treatment, all patients were cured of their disease completely without any complications and with reduced hospital stay. After discharge, no patient showed any signs of relapse on regular follow-up.

Conclusions Ultrasound guided percutaneous closed drainage of thyroid abscess is an effective and safe procedure because of good clinical outcome, patient satisfaction and reduced hospital stay. It is an effective alternative to open incision and drainage of thyroid abscess.