Lateral mini-incision via cervical midline approach versus traditional incision for unilateral thyroid cancer: a...

This study introduces a unilateral thyroid cancer resection technique using a lateral small incision via the linea alba cervicalis (the cervical midline) approach. We evaluated the differences and advantages of this method compared to the conventional low-arc-shaped cervical midline approach, focusing on minimizing surgical trauma and improving cosmetic results.

Clinical data from 124 patients undergoing radical surgery for unilateral thyroid cancer at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College between August 2024 and October 2025 were analyzed. Patients were categorized into either a lateral mini-incision via cervical midline approach group or a traditional low collar incision via cervical midline approach group according to the surgical approach used. A multi-dimensional evaluation compared the groups' clinical characteristics, perioperative parameters, postoperative complications, pain levels, incision characteristics, and scar cosmesis.

The clinical characteristics of both groups were largely comparable. The incision length in the small incision group was significantly shorter than in the traditional group (P < 0.05). Although operative duration and intraoperative blood loss showed no significant differences, the small incision group demonstrated significantly better outcomes for 24 h postoperative drainage volume and hospitalization costs (P < 0.05). Postoperatively, patients in the small incision group reported significantly lower pain scores (P < 0.05), higher satisfaction with incision aesthetics and scar appearance, and improved functional recovery of cervical movement (P < 0.05).

The data validate that unilateral thyroid cancer resection via the cervical lateral small incision combined with cervical midline approach can serve as an alternative to traditional thyroid cancer resection surgery, while reducing surgical trauma and enhancing cosmetic outcomes.