Cosmetic aspects in minimally ınvasive parathyroidectomy: Is minimally invasive approach superior?

Abstract

Aim: The
 aim of this study was to determine whether minimally invasive parathyroid
 surgery has any positive impact on cosmesis. Materials and Methods: This case control study included 28 parathyroidectomized patients, who
 had been operated between January 2006 – December 2008. All patients were
 called back for at least 8 months after surgery. Demographics were recorded.
 Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy versus conventional parathyroidectomy were
 compared by means of skin features (using Fitzpatrick’s classification),
 results of patient and independent observer scar assessment scales and
 photographic scar analysis by the blinded plastic surgeon. Results: There
 were no differences in demographics and Fitzpatrick’s classification between
 both groups. As expected, incision length of the minimal invasive group was
 significantly shorter (2.6 ± 0.5cm vs. 4.9±1.0 cm, p=0.02). Meanwhile, no
 significant difference in objective outcomes of patients between groups was
 recorded. There was also no significant difference in photographic scar
 analysis between groups, while independent observer scar assessment scale
 scores were better in the minimal invasive group (p=0.03). 
 
 
 
 
 
 Conclusion: Although superior
 results of an independent observer, assessment of cosmesis by the plastic
 surgeon and the patient him/herself revealed no superiority of the minimally
 invasive approach, when compared to conventional parathyroid surgery.