Clinical implementation of endoscopic thyroidectomy in selected patients

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Surgical Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Advancements in minimal access surgery have led to the development of endoscopic techniques for thyroidectomy.
• These techniques aim to improve cosmetic outcomes while maintaining surgical efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility and outcomes of endoscopic thyroidectomy in specific clinical scenarios.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of this minimally invasive approach.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, nonrandomized analysis of consecutive patients undergoing thyroid surgery.
• Data collected included patient demographics, surgical indications, incision length, conversion rates, and pathology.
• Endoscopic thyroidectomy was performed in selected cases.

Main Results:

• 36 endoscopic thyroidectomies were successfully performed in 35 patients (28.8% of total thyroidectomies).
• Mean incision length was 24.2 mm, with no permanent hypocalcemia or recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis.
• Obesity, thyroiditis, and large nodules (>2.5 cm) increased surgical difficulty.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic thyroidectomy enables definitive management of thyroid pathology through incisions under 1 inch.
• This approach is viable for surgeons experienced in high-volume thyroidectomy and endoscopic procedures.
• Significant cosmetic advantages are associated with this minimally invasive technique.