Publication:

Coblator-assisted excision of a large vallecular cyst in an adult: a case report

Vallecular cysts are rare, mucus-retention cysts located at the base of the tongue or lingual surface of the epiglottis. While often asymptomatic in adults, large cysts may lead to dysphagia and voice changes. Authors report a case of a 30-year-old male who presented with progressive dysphagia and voice change. Flexible laryngoscopy and contrast-enhanced CT revealed a large vallecular cyst extending from the base of the tongue to the epiglottis. The cyst was excised completely using a co-ablator in an atraumatic manner. The procedure was uneventful, and the patient was discharged the following day. Vallecular cysts in adults may present with vague symptoms. Co-ablator-assisted excision offers a safe, effective, and minimally traumatic method for complete cyst removal with good outcomes.