Postoperative complications of endoscopic thyroidectomy via breast areola vs conventional open thyroidectomy

Abstract

Objective To compare postoperative complications between endoscopic thyroidectomy via breast areola approach and open thyroidectomy. Methods From June 2011 to June 2014, 475 patients underwent thyroidectomy. Patients were divided into traditional open group (251 cases) and endoscopic thyroidectomy group (224 cases). Postoperative complications were recorded and compared. Results All operations were successfully completed. There was no case in endoscopic thyroidectomy group converted to traditional open surgery. There was no serious postoperative complication occurred, including injury to trachea, mediastinal emphysema, intraoperative massive hemorrhage and cardiopulmonary accidents. The difference of postoperative complication between two groups had no statistical significance (all P>0.05) as to permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, Horner syndrome, permanent hypoparathyroidism, chyle leakage, postoperative hemorrhage and infection of incision. However, postoperative ecchymosis was more often in endo group (P<0.05). Conclusions Compared to traditional open thyroidectomy, endoscopic thyroidectomy via breast areola approach has significant cosmetic advantages without increasing the incidence of major postoperative complications. Key words: Thyroid diseases; Thyroidectomy; Postoperative complications