Saccular cysts: a current review of characteristics and management

Abstract

Objectives/hypothesis: To review a large cohort of adult saccular cyst patients and update current management of saccular cysts.

Study design: Retrospective review of treatment of adult patients with saccular cysts.

Methods: Medical records were reviewed of all adult patients with saccular cysts identified between July 1, 2005 and August 31, 2009 at a tertiary care voice center.

Results: Sixteen patients were identified. All complained of dysphonia. Saccular cysts were predominantly left-sided (62.5%). The majority were anterior (85.7%); 14.3% were combined anterior/lateral. There were no isolated lateral saccular cysts. Surgical intervention was performed in 13 patients (81%); 100% were endoscopic. No patient required an external approach. Two patients recurred (15%), both within 2 months, and were managed conservatively.

Conclusions: Saccular cyst is uncommonly encountered but can cause debilitating or even life-threatening symptoms. Over time, management of these lesions has changed dramatically. With current, improved endoscopic techniques, most saccular cysts can be managed endoscopically with great success rates, often without the need for an external approach.