Laparoendoscopic excision of sternal subcutaneous dermoids in children

Endoscopic innovation has allowed surgeons from multiple specialties to excise benign, subcutaneous lesions of the periorbit, nasoglabella, scalp, and trunk with minimal scarring [1–7]. Since Ikeda described thyroidectomy by the endoscopic, axillary approach, otolaryngologists substitute a visible neck scar, with a scarless technique [8]. Dermoid cysts are common in children [9]. They develop along the embryonic fusion lines and are formed by a discrete wall of skin epithelium and appendages [10]. Surgical removal is the treatment of choice [1]. Standard excision of sternal dermoids is associated with poor cosmesis and possibly negative psychological consequences [11–13]. To avoid a prominent scar, three children had midline, subcutaneous, sternal dermoids removed by an endoscopic approach (Fig. 1). Methods