Better Outcomes with Minimally Invasive Thyroidectomy than Conventional Thyroidectomy

Abstract

Objective: Minimally invasive thyroidectomy is a relatively new technique used in selected patients with success. Aim of this study was to evaluate our results from conventional and minimally invasive thyroidectomy and compare their outcomes. Materials and Methods: 137 patients undergone conventional and minimally invasive thyroidectomy (video-assisted and open technique with mini-cervicotomy) were reviewed. Demographic data, blood loss, operative time, postoperative pain, cosmetic outcome and complications were examined and compared. Results: Minimally invasive group consists of 53 cases (39%) and conventional group is composed of 84 cases (61%). No conversion from minimally invasive to conventional techniques was observed. In minimally invasive group, 25 patients (47%) had differentiated thyroid carcinoma and 28 patients (53%) had benign pathologies. Postoperative complications include transient hypocalcemia in 5 patients (3.6%) (4 in conventional, 1 in minimally invasive group), permanent hypocalcemia in 4 patients (3%) (3 in conventional, 1 in minimally invasive group), unilateral vocal cord paralysis in 2 patients (2%) (1 in conventional, 1 in minimally invasive group). Operative time was similar in both groups; however, blood loss during surgery, postoperative pain was significantly lower in minimally invasive group. Conclusion: Minimally invasive techniques could be implemented on selected carcinoma patients and results in equal safety and less surgical morbidity.