Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 12, 2026
"Sun's Seven-Step Technique" for Endoscopic En-Bloc Resection of Thyroid Cancer via the Chest-Breast Approach
Published on: November 28, 2025
[Total videoendoscopic thyroid resection by the axillobilateral breast approach. Operative method and first results]
1Klinik für Allgemein- und Viszeralchirurgie, Zentrum für Minimal Invasive Chirurgie, HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch, Hobrechtsfelder Chaussee 100, 13125, Berlin. mstrik@berlin.helios-kliniken.de
Background:
The axillobilateral breast approach (ABBA) is a procedure allowing thyroid resection without scarring at the neck. We operated on a series of 26 patients with this technique.
Method:
Via incisions at the edge of the mamilla and axilla, trocars are placed subcutaneously under the platyma. Dissection is performed bluntly and with an ultrasonographic scalpel under videoscopic control. The procedure itself corresponds to conventional surgery. The specimen is removed through the axillary trocar.
Results:
Twenty-six female patients underwent thyroid resection using the ABBA technique. Subtotal resection was performed in 24. Mean operation times were 111 min (unilateral) and 187 min (bilateral). In none of these cases was conversion necessary. One transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy and one paresis of the arm plexus were found postoperatively.
Conclusion:
In selected patients the ABBA technique is feasible and safe with the mandatory radicalness. The primary aim of this method is the cosmetic result.
