[Minimally Invasive Video-assisted Thyroidectomy. Experience the same working group]

Different thyroidectomy techniques have been developed to improve the aesthetic results, postoperative pain and to reduce hospital stay.

To demonstrate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy (MIVAT). Design: Retrospective

Ninety six patients with thyroid nodules were selected for MIVAT if they presented nodules under 35 mm in diameter, thyroid volume below 30 ml and absence of high-risk malignant tumor, lateral cervical lymphadenopathy or prior cervical surgery. Indirect laryngoscopy was performed before and after surgery to all patients. Surgery was performed through a midline incision of 1.5 cm above the sternal notch, without carbon dioxide and with magnification endoscopy. We evaluated postoperative complications, pain after surgery, the cosmetic outcome and length of stay.

Ninety patients underwent total thyroidectomy or near-total thyroidectomy. The average operative time was 54 ± 9 minutes. The average diameter of the nodule was 20 ± 6 mm. The average volume was 19 ± 6 ml. We documented six (6.2%) hyperparathyroidism and one recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy (0.96%), both transient and none of them permanent. The postoperative pain was minimal and all patients were discharged within 24 hours. Conclusion: In our experience the MIVAT is a safe and feasible technique for the treatment of thyroid disease, with clear advantages over conventional thyroidectomy in selected patients.

In our experience the MIVAT is a safe and feasible technique for the treatment of thyroid disease, with clear advantages over conventional thyroidectomy in selected patients.