Dysphagia following uncomplicated thyroidectomy: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Endocrinology
• Surgical Gastroenterology

Background:

• Dysphagia is frequently reported after uncomplicated thyroidectomy, presenting diverse swallowing complaints.
• The underlying causes of post-thyroidectomy dysphagia are not fully understood despite various hypotheses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and analyze existing literature on dysphagia following uncomplicated thyroid surgery.
• To qualitatively assess the prevalence, timing, and resolution of swallowing difficulties post-thyroidectomy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies investigating dysphagia after uncomplicated thyroid surgery.
• Qualitative analysis of data extracted from 16 identified studies (15 prospective, 1 retrospective).

Main Results:

• Postoperative dysphagia was documented in all 16 studies, with 12 noting its occurrence in the early postoperative phase.
• Long-term follow-up in 12 studies indicated spontaneous improvement of swallowing symptoms within the first year.
• Instrumental assessments revealed non-specific alterations in swallowing function, failing to pinpoint the exact pathophysiological mechanism.

Conclusions:

• Dysphagia post-thyroidectomy can manifest early and often resolves spontaneously within the first year.
• Current diagnostic methods are insufficient to elucidate the precise cause of swallowing alterations.
• Given the impact on quality of life, pre-operative patient education regarding potential dysphagia is recommended.