[122 cases of endoscopic thyroidectomies through modified chest and mammary areola approach]

To explore the safety and feasibility of endoscopic thyroidectomies through modified chest and mammary areola approach.

We retrospectively analyzed 122 cases of endoscopic thyroidectomies through a modified chest and mammary areola approach without extensive dissection of thoracic flap. The information about general status, surgical procedures and techniques, complications, etc. were summarized and discussed.

One hundred and twenty-one cases were operated successfully while 1 case was converted to video-assisted thyroidectomy through infraclavicular approach. The maximum diameter of the mass was (2.05 ± 1.06) cm, mean operation time was (88.61 ± 27.87) min, the operative blood loss was (31.23 ± 16.14) ml, duration of postoperative drainage was (3.54 ± 0.88) d and overall drainage volume was (139.09 ± 95.93) ml. Parathyroid glands were detected in specimens of 9 cases while no case of permanent postoperative hypocalcaemia was displayed. 6 cases of hoarseness were developed. One case experienced conversion surgery, all the others obtained satisfactory cosmetic result. All cases were followed up for 0-24 months without relapse and metastasis of the disease.

Endoscopic thyroidectomy via a modified chest and breast areola approach can facilitated the procedure and avoid extensive dissection of thoracic flap, and proved to be safe and effective.