[Forms of the compression syndrome in nodular and retrosternal struma in advanced age]

65 cases with a partially retrosternally localized nodular goitre and with compression syndrome (CS) are discussed. The most often (45 patients) registered complaints are breathing difficulties because of tracheal compression, in 8 further patients bad deglutination prevailed over dyspnoe, 3 patients with a compression of the jugular veins showed oedematous face, cyanosis and other signs testifying for stasis of the superior vena cava. Compression of the cervical truncus sympathicus was the cause of Horner's syndrome in 5 patients, in one person thyroid malignancy led to a coarse voice via infiltration of the recurrent nerve. In an additional group were 10 persons with a partially retrosternally localized recurrent nodular goitre, they were subjected to reoperation. In conclusion, 1. the therapy of choice of a CS is strumectomy 2. a consequent postoperative therapy with thyroid preparations is postulated.