Congenital nonvascular neck masses: A retrospective analysis Publication date: Available online 12 June 2019 Source: Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology Author(s): Matteo Brucoli, Paolo Boffano, Arnaldo Benech, Silvia Rosa, Massimiliano Garzaro, Paolo Aluffi Valletti ABSTRACT Introduction Congenital nonvascular neck masses are a challenge in head and neck diagnosis and management. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical and epidemiological findings in patients who were diagnosed for congenital nonvascular neck masses. Methods All patients with congenital nonvascular neck masses who were treated between 1996 and 2018 were reviewed. The following data were recorded: age, gender, final pathological diagnosis (thyroglossal duct cysts, branchial cleft cysts, dermoid cysts), side of the lesion, subtype according to branchial arch (for branchial cleft cysts), and need for second surgery. Results 226 patients were included, with 100 thyroglossal duct cysts, 97 branchial cysts, and 29 dermoid cysts. Excision surgery was performed in all cases. Recurrence and subsequent second surgery was necessary in 5 cases out of 226. Conclusions An appropriate knowledge of clinical and epidemiological data regarding congenital nonvascular neck masses is crucial. Surgical resection is the optimal choice of therapy. Early referral of these patients to a head and neck surgeon is crucial for a timely treatment.