Does Postthyroidectomy Syndrome Really Exist Following Thyroidectomy? Prospective Comparative Analysis of Open vs....

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Innovation
• Voice Science

Background:

• Postthyroidectomy syndrome (PTS) encompasses voice and swallowing disturbances after thyroid surgery.
• Objective and subjective voice changes are common sequelae of thyroidectomy.
• Comparing open thyroidectomy (OPEN) and endoscopic thyroidectomy (ENDO) is crucial for understanding PTS outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively evaluate postthyroidectomy syndrome (PTS) by assessing objective and subjective voice changes.
• To compare voice outcomes between open thyroidectomy and endoscopic thyroidectomy.
• To determine the persistence of voice alterations at 1 and 6 months post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• A prospective clinical trial involving 110 patients undergoing thyroidectomy (75 completed follow-up).
• Comparison between open thyroidectomy (OPEN) and endoscopic thyroidectomy (ENDO) groups.
• Assessment of subjective parameters (GRBAS scale, Voice Handicap Index, vocal fatigue, singing difficulty, phonation, neck discomfort) and objective parameters (acoustic, aerodynamic, electroglottography).

Main Results:

• Endoscopic thyroidectomy had a longer operative time than open thyroidectomy.
• In the OPEN group, 2 objective and 5 subjective voice parameters were worse at 1 month, with 2 subjective parameters persisting at 6 months.
• In the ENDO group, 3 objective and 6 subjective voice parameters were worse at 1 month, with 3 subjective parameters persisting at 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Postthyroidectomy syndrome (PTS) is a common occurrence following both open and endoscopic thyroidectomy.
• While most voice parameters show gradual improvement, certain subjective voice changes can persist for up to 6 months post-surgery.
• Both surgical approaches result in PTS, highlighting the need for vocal rehabilitation strategies.