A clinical comparative study of thyroid surgeries with and without drain

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Surgical Oncology
• General Surgery

Background:

• Thyroid surgery commonly involves drain placement to manage potential postoperative complications like hematoma and seroma.
• Drains are intended to obliterate dead space and drain fluid, but can also lead to complications such as tube blockage, increased pain, infection, and prolonged hospitalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the outcomes of thyroid surgeries performed with and without drain placement.
• To evaluate the impact of drain usage on postoperative pain, complications, and hospital stay duration.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 40 patients undergoing thyroid surgery for various thyroid disorders.
• Patients were allocated to either a 'with drain' group or a 'without drain' group.
• Postoperative pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at 6 and 24 hours, along with documentation of complications and hospitalization duration.

Main Results:

• Patients in the 'without drain' group experienced significantly lower postoperative pain at both 6 and 24 hours compared to the 'with drain' group (p < 0.001).
• The mean duration of hospitalization was significantly shorter for patients who did not have drains placed (p < 0.001).
• While not statistically significant, the 'with drain' group showed a trend towards higher wound pain at one week and overall complications.

Conclusions:

• Thyroid surgery performed without drain placement results in significantly reduced postoperative pain and a shorter hospital stay.
• Drainless thyroid surgery may offer a favorable alternative to traditional drain placement, potentially improving patient recovery and comfort.