Hypothyroidism After Using Superior Thyroid Artery as A Recipient Artery.

Area of Science:

• Head and Neck Surgery
• Vascular Surgery
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Free tissue transfer is crucial in reconstructive surgery following extensive head and neck cancer resections.
• The superior thyroid artery (SThA) is frequently utilized as a recipient vessel in these procedures.
• Total pharyngolaryngoesophagectomy (TPLE) with hemithyroidectomy necessitates careful consideration of vascular supply for reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of using the SThA as a recipient vessel on postoperative thyroid function.
• To determine the safety and efficacy of SThA in free tissue transfer after TPLE with hemithyroidectomy.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 91 patients undergoing free jejunum transfer post-TPLE with hemithyroidectomy (2011-2020).
• Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=47) using the contralateral SThA, and Group 2 (n=44) using other vessels.
• Postoperative thyroid function was compared between the two groups.

Main Results:

• Hypothyroidism rates were similar between the SThA group (17/47) and the other vessels group (15/44).
• Latent hypothyroidism rates were also comparable (21/47 vs. 19/44).
• No significant differences in thyroid dysfunction were observed between the groups.

Conclusions:

• The SThA can be safely employed as a recipient vessel in free tissue transfer even after hemithyroidectomy.
• Preservation of the inferior thyroid arteries ensures adequate thyroid function is maintained.
• This finding supports the continued use of SThA in complex head and neck reconstructions.