Desmoid tumor arising from omohyoid muscle: The first report for unusual complication after transaxillary robotic thyroidectomy

Background Transaxillary robotic (TAR) thyroidectomy has been performed for better aesthetic results by many surgeons. In this report, we describe a rare case of a desmoid tumor developed after TAR thyroidectomy, which is speculated to be a late‐term complication. Methods and Results A 61‐year‐old woman with a history of papillary microcarcinoma had experienced a large left neck mass that had grown over 2 years. The patient underwent TAR thyroidectomy (right lobectomy and isthmectomy) via the right axilla almost 2.5 years previously. Physical examination revealed a 6‐cm, firm mass fixed to the left anterior neck. The mass was fixed to the omohyoid muscle. The 5.9‐ × 4.7‐ × 4.5‐cm tumor with the surrounding muscles was excised in an en bloc fashion. Pathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of a desmoid tumor. Conclusion This case suggests that desmoid tumors could develop late after TAR thyroidectomy. Thus, careful observation of the surgical wound may be necessary after TAR thyroidectomy. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36 : E48–E51, 2014