Title:A Case Report of Wire-localised Excision of Impalpable Recurrent Papillary
Thyroid Carcinoma and Discussion of Wire-guided Excision in the Head and
Neck Pathology
Volume: 20
Author(s): Eric Farrell*, Richard Speaker, Donal O'Driscoll and Liam Skinner
Affiliation:
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
Keywords:
Wire localization, Head and neck cancer, Thyroid, Lymph nodes, Lymph node biopsy, Thyroid cancer.
Abstract:
Introduction/Background:
Wire localisation techniques are used widely for precision surgery in many specialities. This convenient technique has not yet become mainstream
in the field of head and neck surgery. With limited space and many vital structures coursing through the head and neck region, pathological nodes
that are difficult to palpate can be a challenge for clinicians.
Case Presentation:
A patient with a history of papillary thyroid cancer treated with surgery and radioactive iodine had a single pathological node detected on
ultrasound surveillance. An isolated recurrence of papillary thyroid carcinoma was confirmed. An excisional biopsy was performed using
ultrasound wire guidance to successfully remove the diseased node with minimal morbidity.
Conclusion:
Wire-guided lymph node excision biopsy is a safe and effective method that can be applied to multiple pathologies. As of yet, it is not routine
practice to employ this technique. Larger studies would increase the generalisability and safety profile of this technique in the head and neck
region.
