Voice quality preservation in thyroid surgery with neuromonitoring

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Endocrine Surgery
• Quality of Life Research

Background:

• Voice problems are a common concern following thyroidectomy.
• Assessing the impact of thyroid surgery on voice-related quality of life is crucial for patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate voice-related quality of life in patients after thyroidectomy using neuromonitoring.
• To investigate sociodemographic and treatment factors affecting voice quality post-thyroidectomy.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 40 patients undergoing thyroidectomy with neuromonitoring was studied.
• Voice outcomes were assessed pre- and post-operatively using the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) and Voice-Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL) survey.

Main Results:

• No recurrent laryngeal nerve palsies were observed; all external branches of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLNs) were identified.
• No significant changes in VHI or V-RQOL scores were noted, but a strong correlation was found between VHI and V-RQOL scores.
• Age showed a small correlation with VHI and V-RQOL scores, while other factors like sex, operation type, or goiter volume did not.

Conclusions:

• Neuromonitoring during thyroid surgery is beneficial for maintaining voice quality.
• Identification and preservation of EBSLNs are essential for preventing voice alterations after thyroidectomy.