Bilateral suture granuloma formation one year and a half after total thyroidectomy referred as tumor recurrence

Abstract

Introduction: Stitch abscess or suture granuloma is a rare complication defined as a benign granulomatous inflammatory lesion with an incidence rate of about 2 percent seen after various kinds of surgical procedures.

Case presentation: Here we present a 49 years old woman that presented with bilateral neck swelling and pain one year and a half after total thyroidectomy surgery misdiagnosed as tumor recurrence.

Discussion: Post-thyroidectomy suture reaction causing granulomatous lesions or abscess formation as seen in our case is even rarer with an incidence rate of 0.08% to 1.5%. Silk suture is the most common non-absorbable suture material that has been used in vascular ligation. Young adults, liver dysfunction and allergy history are predisposing factors for stitch abscess.

Conclusion: Development of suture granuloma should be considered when vascular ligation by silk suture is preferred especially in patients with predisposing factors.