Comparative study comparing endoscopic thyroidectomy using the axillary approach and open thyroidectomy for papillary...

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Endocrinology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Endoscopic thyroidectomy (ET) is cautiously applied for malignant thyroid tumors.
• Comparison of ET and conventional open thyroidectomy (COT) for micropapillary thyroid carcinoma is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare surgical outcomes between ET and COT for micropapillary thyroid carcinoma.
• Evaluate operative time, lymph node retrieval, complications, and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 78 patients (37 ET, 41 COT) undergoing unilateral lobectomy and central lymph node dissection.
• Surgical outcomes including operation time, lymph node yield, complications, and cosmetic satisfaction were assessed.

Main Results:

• ET group had longer operation times (138.4 min vs. 112.3 min) and reported more pain.
• No significant differences in tumor size, lymph node retrieval, or hospital stay.
• ET group showed significantly higher patient satisfaction with cosmetic results (P<0.001).
• One recurrence in each group within 2 years.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic thyroidectomy (ET) is a safe and feasible option for micropapillary thyroid carcinoma.
• ET provides excellent cosmetic outcomes compared to conventional open thyroidectomy (COT).
• Further prospective studies with long-term follow-up are warranted.