Congenital Midline Cervical Cleft: A Case Report with Review of Literature
Ashwin A Jaiswal, Bikram K Behera, Ravindranath Membally, Manoj K Mohanty
Citation Information :
Jaiswal AA, Behera BK, Membally R, Mohanty MK. Congenital Midline Cervical Cleft: A Case Report with Review of Literature. Int J Head Neck Surg 2017; 8 (1):25-30.
To highlight a rare case of a congenital midline cervical cleft (CMCC) in context with embryological theories/hypothesis, presentation, and management along with review of literature.
Introduction
Congenital midline cervical cleft is a rare but interesting anterior neck anomaly with controversial theories/ hypothesis regarding its embryogenesis.
Case report
We describe here a classical case of midline cervical cleft that presented at birth with a cephalocaudal orientation, extending from the level below the hyoid bone to the suprasternal notch with a length of 3 cm and width of 0.5 cm. At 6 months of age, the lesion was excised and closure was done by multiple Z-plasty, with satisfactory results.
Discussion
Although the diagnosis is clinical, it is frequently misdiagnosed. The associated clinical features could include thyroglossal duct cysts, cleft lip/mandible/sternum, cervical contractures, mandibular spurs, microgenia, and/or bronchogenic cysts. If it is not treated at an early age, it can result in complications like webbing of the neck, dental malocclusion, and restricted neck movements.
Conclusion
Earliest recognition of CMCC and proper intervention can provide better esthetic and functional prognosis.
Clinical significance
A correct earlier recognition of the lesion and appropriate surgical management are key to avoid longterm complications.
How to cite this article
Jaiswal AA, Behera BK, Membally R, Mohanty MK. Congenital Midline Cervical Cleft: A Case Report with Review of Literature. Int J Head Neck Surg 2017;8(1):25-30.
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