Complications Of Thyroidectomy Research Articles

7046 Thyroid Storm After Thyroidectomy Without Underlying Hyperthyroidism

Abstract Disclosure: A.J. White-Cotsmire: None. B. Kodali: None. C. McHenry: None. M. Rahhal: None. Background: Thyroid storm is a feared complication of total thyroidectomy; however, this is a rare phenomenon seen primarily in patients with undiagnosed or poorly controlled thyrotoxicosis from Graves’ disease. Preoperative treatment of patients with hyperthyroidism with beta-adrenergic blockers and anti-thyroid medication to ensure that patients are euthyroid prior to thyroidectomy have largely eliminated this risk of thyroid storm. (1) We report a case of thyroid storm caused by release of preformed thyroid hormone, following extensive manipulation and resection of a large retrosternal nontoxic multinodular goiter. To our knowledge, this has not yet been previously described. Clinical Case: A 57yo female underwent a total thyroidectomy with resection of a large benign multinodular goiter with retrosternal extension, which was causing compressive symptoms. She had a nodular goiter for 7 years that was increasing in size. Fine needle aspiration 2 years prior to surgery demonstrated colloid and adenomatoid nodules with Hurthle cell changes. She had no history of hypo- or hyperthyroidism. TSH prior to surgery was 0.576µIU/ml (normal = 0.450-5.330µIU/ml). Extensive manipulation was required to deliver the goiter from beneath the manubrium. Pathology from her thyroid revealed a multinodular goiter without evidence of malignancy. Post-operative course was uncomplicated, and after an overnight stay, the patient was discharged home with 150mcg (1.5mcg/kg) levothyroxine daily. She presented to the emergency department 4 days later and was admitted to the intensive care unit with diffuse abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and myalgias, and she was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response. TSH on admission was 0.020 µIU/ml, thyroglobulin levels were >2,250.0ng/mL (n=0.8 – 48.0 ng/mL), thyroglobulin antibodies were negative. Her levothyroxine was stopped, her heart rate was controlled with metoprolol, and she was started on oral anticoagulation with rivaroxaban. She was discharged after a 7-day hospital stay. At 3 weeks follow-up her TSH was 35.67µIU/ml and her thyroglobulin levels were 23.9ng/mL. Her symptoms had resolved, and levothyroxine was resumed at a lower dose of 137mcg daily. Six weeks later her TSH level was 7.785µIU/ml, and her thyroglobulin was 1.8ng/mL. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first case of thyroid storm reported following thyroidectomy in a patient with nontoxic multinodular goiter in a clinically and biochemically euthyroid patient. Massive increase in thyroglobulin postoperatively and rapid resolution of symptoms suggest that the release of preformed thyroid hormone related to vigorous thyroid manipulation was likely the cause. Reference: (1) Christou N, Mathonnet M. Complications after total thyroidectomy. Journal of Visceral Surgery. 2013;150(4):249-256. doi:10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2013.04.003 Presentation: 6/1/2024

7147 A Retrospective Evaluation of Biochemical and Clinical Criteria of Permanent Hypoparathyroidism After Total Thyroidectomy and Their Associated Outcomes

Abstract Disclosure: D.G. Su: None. S. Tsou: None. W. Shen: None. Q. Duh: None. C. Graves: None. I. Suh: None. Background: Postoperative hypoparathyroidism (hypoPT) is the most common complication of total thyroidectomy and carries long-term morbidity. However, reported incidences vary widely due to nonstandardized measurement practices and absence of a universally accepted definition. This study aims to evaluate various definitions of hypoPT and to identify influencing factors such as diagnosis and operative duration. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with a diagnosis of hypoPT (ICD-9: E20, E20.0, E20.8, E20.9, E89.2) between January 2012 and January 2019 at a single large academic institution, and only included those who had underwent a total thyroidectomy six months prior. Definitions based on low parathyroid hormone (PTH) values (PTH < 10 pg/mL), low calcium levels (corrected calcium [Ca] < 8.5 mg/dL or ionized Ca [iCa] < 1.1 mmol/L), and postoperative supplementation (elemental calcium or vitamin D) were evaluated at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Postoperative hypocalcemic symptoms were graded by disease severity (based on the presence of numbness/paresthesia, muscle spasms/aches, and Chvostek/Trousseau signs). Patient demographics, operative and pathological characteristics, and use of parathyroid autotransplantation were recorded. Results: Of 879 patients with hypoPT ICD-9 diagnoses, 124 (14%) underwent a total thyroidectomy and were included. Our cohort was 64% female with a median age of 52.9 years. Fifty-one patients (41%) had low PTH levels, 49 (39%) had low calcium levels, and only 26 (21%) had both low PTH and calcium. Of 94 patients (76%) with hypocalcemic symptoms, 68 (73%) required long-term calcium or vitamin D supplementation. Twenty-eight (22.6%) patients had either an ED visit or readmission for hypocalcemia postoperatively. One hundred seven patients (86%) had a pathologic diagnosis of malignancy, of which 37% had extrathyroidal extension, 25% vascular invasion, and 36% positive margins. Those who underwent parathyroid autotransplantation (33%) were less likely to meet biochemical definition of hypoPT (p = 0.0312). Dosage of calcium/vitamin D supplementation did not correlate with symptom grade. Conclusions: Postoperative hypocalcemic symptoms and long-term calcium/vitamin D supplementation were the most common characteristics found in our permanent hypoPT cohort. However, substantial heterogeneity in defining postoperative hypoPT exists, with no definition capturing the full spectrum of affected patients. Further research is necessary to develop reliable diagnostic criteria or biomarkers for hypoPT prediction and management. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Delayed-onset vocal cord palsy after thyroidectomy occurring despite normal initial post-operative endoscopy.

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury is a known complication of thyroidectomy. Most cases manifest immediately and are promptly recognized. Rarely, some patients experience delayed-onset vocal cord palsy. This can occur despite normal findings on intra-operative nerve monitoring and initial post-operative endoscopy. This can cause considerable distress for patients, and its incidence and prognosis should be recognized. We report seven patients experiencing delayed-onset RLN palsy (RLNP) after thyroidectomy. All had normal findings on pre-operative flexible nasoendoscopy (FNE), intra-operative nerve monitoring at conclusion of surgery, and initial post-operative FNE. All diagnoses of RLNP were confirmed on endoscopy. Serial FNE examinations were performed to evaluate recovery. Of seven patients (43% male, median age 65 years), the median timing of delayed-onset RLNP was 12 (range 9-35) days. RLNP was diagnosed on the unilateral side of surgery in six out of seven patients (86%). All received conservative management, including referral to voice therapy. All seven patients recovered vocal cord function after a median duration of 24 weeks (range 8-52 weeks), and six within ~6 months (28 weeks). The incidence of this complication was 0.1% (among 6607 thyroidectomies). We report the first Australian series of delayed-onset vocal cord palsy after thyroidectomy. We explore its prognosis, discussing different pathophysiological mechanisms and the timeframe for recovery compared to most other RLN injuries. This may assist recognition of a rare complication, reassure patients, and facilitate early intervention to improve a patient's quality of life.

Pediatric Graves' Disease: Surgical Interventions in a Single Institution - A Comprehensive Case Series.

Graves' disease (GD) is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in children and adolescents. Data regarding pediatric GD in Indonesia are limited and pose challenges to diagnosing and treating the patients. In many aspects the clinical presentation of GD in children and adolescents resembles that of the adult population. There are three treatments for pediatric GD: anti-thyroid drugs, radioiodine ablation, and thyroidectomy. Although surgery is gaining acceptance as the definitive first-line treatment for children with GD, several studies examining pediatric populations have shown high complication rates. This study aims to describe a series of pediatric GD cases from a tertiary care center over an eight-year period. Retrospective data of five patients with hyperthyroidism diagnosed with GD between 2014 and 2022 were reviewed. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, therapies, and short-term postoperative outcomes of GD were analyzed. All five GD patients presented with neck lumps. Low TSH levels and elevated FT4 levels were found in all patients preoperatively. Total thyroidectomy was performed in all patients, while one patient had lymphadenectomy concurrently. Histopathologic examination confirmed a diagnosis of GD in all patients. All patients in this study experienced postoperative complications such as hoarseness, while only three patients had hypocalcemia as a complication. Total thyroidectomy in pediatric patients remains challenging. The euthyroid condition in patient prior to surgery is recommended to avoid the risk of thyroid storm during surgery, but a few studies have revealed that there is no difference in outcomes for hyperthyroid individuals. Close postoperative surveillance for complications of total thyroidectomy is necessary. Results of this study showed that pediatric GD patients had the same symptoms of hyperthyroidism as adults with all patients complained of neck lumps. Total thyroidectomy is the definitive therapy for GD in pediatrics as well as in adults. The minority of patients will experience transient and benign morbidities, with hoarseness of the voice being the most common transient postoperative morbidity. In performing total thyroidectomy, meticulous surgery and good anatomical recognition are required to avoid postoperative complications. So that, follow-up of post-total thyroidectomy in pediatric GD patients needs to be done.

Intraoperative detection of parathyroid glands using artificial intelligence: optimizing medical image training with data augmentation methods

BackgroundPostoperative hypoparathyroidism is a major complication of thyroidectomy, occurring when the parathyroid glands are inadvertently damaged during surgery. Although intraoperative images are rarely used to train artificial intelligence (AI) because of its complex nature, AI may be trained to intraoperatively detect parathyroid glands using various augmentation methods. The purpose of this study was to train an effective AI model to detect parathyroid glands during thyroidectomy.MethodsVideo clips of the parathyroid gland were collected during thyroid lobectomy procedures. Confirmed parathyroid images were used to train three types of datasets according to augmentation status: baseline, geometric transformation, and generative adversarial network-based image inpainting. The primary outcome was the average precision of the performance of AI in detecting parathyroid glands.Results152 Fine-needle aspiration-confirmed parathyroid gland images were acquired from 150 patients who underwent unilateral lobectomy. The average precision of the AI model in detecting parathyroid glands based on baseline data was 77%. This performance was enhanced by applying both geometric transformation and image inpainting augmentation methods, with the geometric transformation data augmentation dataset showing a higher average precision (79%) than the image inpainting model (78.6%). When this model was subjected to external validation using a completely different thyroidectomy approach, the image inpainting method was more effective (46%) than both the geometric transformation (37%) and baseline (33%) methods.ConclusionThis AI model was found to be an effective and generalizable tool in the intraoperative identification of parathyroid glands during thyroidectomy, especially when aided by appropriate augmentation methods. Additional studies comparing model performance and surgeon identification, however, are needed to assess the true clinical relevance of this AI model.Graphical abstract

From routine to rescue: Thyroidectomy for life-threatening thyrotoxicosis.

Thyroidectomies are routinely same-day elective procedures. The aim of this study was to investigate outcomes in patients who underwent uncommon urgent thyroidectomy. We retrospectively reviewed patients diagnosed with thyrotoxicosis at a quaternary medical center between 2011 and 2023. Included patients were admitted nonelectively with thyroidectomies performed during same hospital stay. Patient demographics, comorbidities, hospital course, and operative outcomes were analyzed. Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. The majority were female (60%) and Black (60%) with a mean age of 41±14years. At admission, 76.6% had undetectable thyrotropin levels (<0.01µU/mL) and 26.7% were diagnosed with thyroid storm. Common presenting comorbidities included atrial fibrillation (53.3%), heart failure (40%), and liver failure (16.7%). Graves' disease was diagnosed in 83.3% of patients, while 13.3% had amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis. Median hospital stay before surgery was 8days (interquartile range: 4-16). Indications for surgery were adverse medication events (30%), inadequate therapeutic effect by medication (30%), and worsening heart failure (26.7%). Postoperatively, 6.7% required reoperation for neck hematoma, 13.3% experienced temporary hypoparathyroidism, and 6.7% had hoarseness. Following surgery, 50% of patients with atrial fibrillation experienced resolution and 50% with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction showed ultrasonic improvement. Within 30days, 20% visited the emergency department, none due to thyroidectomy complications, and 13.3% were readmitted for comorbidities. One patient (3.3%) died from liver failure. Patients who require an urgent thyroidectomy often have life-threatening comorbidities particularly cardiac disease. Performing thyroidectomy in these patients can potentially create clinical homeostasis for further management of their comorbidities.

Camera-based near-infrared autofluorescence versus visual identification in total thyroidectomy for parathyroid function preservation: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Hypocalcemia is the most common postoperative complication of total thyroidectomy. Near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) technology is a surgical adjunct that has been increasingly utilized with the aim of preventing postoperative hypocalcemia, but its clinical benefits have not yet been firmly established. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical benefit of utilizing NIRAF technology in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Seven randomized clinical trials with 1437 patients (318 males, 22.13%) undergoing total thyroidectomy were included for analysis. Risk of postoperative hypocalcemia was reduced in the NIRAF arm (RR, 0.65; 95%CI, 0.50-0.84). Use of NIRAF was also associated with a reduction in the risk of permanent parathyroid dysfunction (RR, 0.46; 95%CI, 0.22-0.95) and inadvertent parathyroid gland resection (RR, 0.40; 95%CI, 0.26-0.60). We present a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials examining the impact of NIRAF technology on preservation of parathyroid function. Our results suggest that use of camera-based NIRAF technology reduces the risk of postoperative hypocalcemia, permanent parathyroid dysfunction, and inadvertent parathyroid gland resection.

Impact of oral administration of calcitriol to prevent symptomatic hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

One of the most common complications of total thyroidectomy is post-operative transient or persistent hypoparathyroidism that can cause symptomatic hypocalcaemia. To prevent this complication, shorten the period of hospitalization and reduce morbidity, routine supplementation of oral vitamin D and calcium has been suggested. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to critically assess the association between pre-operative calcitriol supplementation and post-operative hypocalcaemia. Randomized controlled trial studies were identified by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases up to 30 March 2023. Screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts of articles were performed, and data were extracted for a meta-analysis. This meta-analysis includes data from nine randomized controlled trials with a total of 1259 patients but with significant heterogeneity. The results demonstrate that calcium levels were higher in patients who had pre-operative calcitriol supplementation, with a weighted mean difference (WMD) 0.18 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.00, 0.37). Pre-operative calcitriol supplementation did not lead to significant changes in parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, with WMD -0.49 (95% CI: -1.91, 0.94). Pre-operative calcitriol supplementation leads to higher calcium levels, but the high heterogeneity of the included studies (79% to 98.7%) could affect the results.

Correlation of serum vitamin D level before surgery with hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy

Background. Hypocalcemia is a common complication of total thyroidectomy. It has many consequences for the health of patients and negatively affects the patient’s quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predictive role of vitamin D serum levels before total thyroidectomy in the occurrence of hypocalcemia. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 82 patients who were candidates for total thyroidectomy surgery and referred to 5 Azar Hospital in Gorgan in 2022. Demographic information, laboratory variables, and clinical symptoms of hypocalcemia before surgery, and 24 hours and two weeks after surgery were collected using a checklist. Data were analyzed with SPSS18 software, independent t-tests, U-Man-Whitney, Wilcoxon, paired t-tests, and a Chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05. Results. The mean serum calcium level was significantly reduced 24 hours and two weeks after surgery. The average serum level of phosphorus also decreased significantly 24 hours after surgery. About 32.9% showed symptoms of hypocalcemia 24 hours after surgery. Hypocalcemia was not related to the serum vitamin D level. The mean serum calcium level was significantly lower in patients with hypocalcemic symptoms. The average parathyroid hormone one day after surgery was significantly higher in patients with normal calcium levels. Conclusion. Vitamin D serum level before total thyroidectomy is not related to hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy. Serum levels of parathyroid hormone and phosphorus are related to serum calcium changes after surgery. Practical Implications. Serum vitamin D levels before thyroidectomy cannot predict hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy. Serum levels of parathyroid hormone and phosphorus are related to serum calcium changes after surgery. Therefore, long-term follow-up of calcium, vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and phosphorus levels is recommended for these patients.

Early hospital discharge through prediction of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism

IntroductionHypoparathyroidism is the most common postsurgical complication of total thyroidectomy. Furthermore, it is the main cause of prolonged hospitalisation after this procedure. ObjectiveTo predict the probability of post-thyroidectomy hypocalcaemia according to the levels of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), as well as to determine the needs for treatment with exogenous calcium according to the levels of serum calcium (Ca). Materials and methodsRetrospective study was carried out on patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between January 2017 and January 2020 at Los Arcos del Mar Menor University Hospital (HULAMM). iPTH and Ca levels ​​were measured at 4, 24 and 48 h after the surgery. Follow-up was 6 months. ResultsNinety-four patients were operated on. Temporary and permanent postoperative hypoparathyroidism percentages were, respectively, 51.06% and 6.38%. iPTH level 24 h after the procedure was the most reliable predictor of post-thyroidectomy temporary hypoparathyroidism (Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) = 0.933, p < .001). iPTH levels ​​≥29 pg/mL predicted normal parathyroid metabolism. ConclusionsThe combined values of iPTH and Ca levels 24 h after thyroidectomy seems to be a reliable, safe and efficient method to control the post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. Our protocol could reduce the hospital stay of patients at low risk of hypocalcaemia, allowing them to be discharged from the hospital on the first postoperative morning and identifying patients at high risk of hypocalcaemia early.

Postoperative hypo parathyroid in patient with total thyroidectomy; a multi-center study

Background: Thyroidectomy complications include nerve damage, hypoparathyroidism, and bleeding. Hypoparathyroidism, marked by reduced parathyroid function, is a common complication, leading to low calcium levels and symptoms like muscle cramps. Incidence rates vary. Surgeons must prioritize parathyroid gland identification and protection during surgery to prevent complications and ensure patient well-being. Aim of the study: The aim of this study has been to evaluate the incidence of hypoparathyroidism and clinical manifestations of hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy. Methods: This retrospective study, spanning 2020-2022 across four different hospital and teaching institutes in various parts of the world, analyzed 350 patients who underwent thyroid gland surgeries, including 350 total thyroidectomies. Focused on postoperative hypoparathyroidism as an early complication. Inclusion criteria involved age (18-85), complete thyroidectomy, and no prior hypoparathyroidism. Exclusion criteria included coexisting medical conditions and pregnancy. Postoperative hypoparathyroidism diagnosis relied on low serum calcium and parathyroid hormone levels within 24 hours. Result: The study examines the characteristics of a population undergoing thyroid surgeries. Among 144 patients, most are aged 60-65 (41.14%), with 86% females. Total thyroidectomy is standard (87.14%), while 12.86% involve lymphadenectomy. PTH levels below 15.0 pg/ml indicate potential hypoparathyroidism, more prevalent in surgeries with lymphadenectomy. Conclusion: This multicenter study highlights a significant incidence of postoperative hypoparathyroidism after total thyroidectomy and decreased parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. Early detection and management strategies for postoperative hypoparathyroidism are crucial, with routine monitoring of serum PTH levels within 24 hours post-surgery recommended.

Complications of thyroidectomy: Insights from a single-centre study in northeast India

To study and compare the frequency of post-operative complications associated with thyroid surgeries indicated for various benign and malignant pathologies and assess the outcome of management of such complications in a tertiary care hospital in Northeast India. An analytical study was done at a tertiary care hospital in Assam over a period of 1 year from May 2022 to June 2023. Data was collected from 53 patients who underwent surgery at this hospital. Hemithyroidectomy, subtotal, near-total, and total thyroidectomies were performed in 31(58.4%), 2 (3.7%), 6 (11.3%) and 14 (26.4%) cases respectively. The overall rate of complications was 39.6%. Permanent hypocalcaemia was observed to be the most common complication, followed by transient hypocalcaemia and transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. The complications were found to be more frequent in surgery for malignant thyroid disease. There was no mortality in our study. A better understanding of thyroid gland anatomy, meticulous haemostasis and Identification of Recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands lead to favourable post-operative outcomes. Appropriate post-operative care with early identification and management of complications plays an essential role in reducing the duration of postoperative hospital stay and limiting patient morbidity.

Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury Following Thyroidectomy Challenges to the Anaesthesiologist

Injury to the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve is uncommon, but one of the complications of thyroidectomy.&#x0D; We report a case of 40 years old female, who underwent total thyroidectomy, following which developed recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and vocal cord palsy, which was diagnosed immediately and managed successfully.

Assessing Symptomatic Hypocalcemia Risk After Total Thyroidectomy: A Prospective Study.

Introduction The most common postoperative complication of total thyroidectomy is hypocalcemia, usually monitored using serum parathyroid hormone and calcium values. Objective To identify the most accurate predictors of hypocalcemia, construct a risk assesment algorithm and analyze the impact of using several calcium correction formulas in practice. Methods A prospective, single-center, non-randomized longitudinal cohort study on 205 patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. Parathyroid hormone, serum, and ionized calcium were sampled post-surgery, with the presence of symptomatic or laboratory-verified asymptomatic hypocalcemia designated as primary outcome measures. Results Parathyroid hormone sampled on the first postoperative day was the most sensitive predictor of symptomatic hypocalcemia development (sensitivity 80.22%, cut-off value ≤2.03 pmol/L). A combination of serum calcium and parathyroid concentration sampled on the first postoperative day predicted the development of hypocalcemia during recovery with the highest sensitivity and specificity (94% sensitivity, cut-off ≤2.1 mmol/L, and 89% specificity, cut-off ≤1.55 pmol/L, respectively). The use of algorithms and correction formulas did not improve the accuracy of predicting symptomatic or asymptomatic hypocalcemia. Conclusions The most sensitive predictor of symptomatic hypocalcemia present on the fifth postoperative day was PTH sampled on the first postoperative day. The need for algorithms and correction formulas is limited.

Preoperative Vitamin.D Status and Post-Total Thyroidectomy Hypocalcemia.

Hypocalcemia is a common complication of total thyroidectomy (TT). This study was designed to investigate the effect of preoperative vitamin.D (Vit.D) status on the occurrence of post-total thyroidectomy hypocalcemia. Patients who underwent TT without parathyroidectomy were divided into three groups based on their preoperative Serum Vit.D levels (<20 ng/ml, 20-30 ng/ml, and ≥30 ng/ml were considered deficient, insufficient, and normal Vit.D levels, respectively). Serum levels of calcium and phosphorus were measured before and 24 hours after surgery in all patients. The patients were examined for clinical symptoms and signs of hypocalcemia postoperatively. In cases with positive clinical symptoms and signs of hypocalcemia and/or calcium levels <8 mg/dl, PTH level was measured before starting calcium infusion, while serum calcium and phosphorus levels were also measured 24 hours later. Among 100 patients enrolled in this study, 81% were females. The mean age was 36.60±8.32 years. Before surgery, the mean Vit.D level was 26.9±16.89 ng/ml, while 47% of cases had normal Vit.D level, 32% had insufficient vitamin levels, and 21% had Vit.D deficiency. Twenty-four hours after surgery, the calcium (P=0.356) and phosphorus (P=0.743) levels were not significantly different between the three Vit.D groups. A comparison of postoperative PTH levels between the three Vit.D groups showed no significant difference (P=0.596). Based on our findings, preoperative serum Vit.D levels did not affect postoperative serum calcium levels.

An individual approach to intraoperative parathyroid hormone measurement during total thyroidectomy

PurposeHypocalcemia is a common complication of thyroidectomy. Measurement of the intraoperative serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels became an established technique but it requires further improvements. We aimed to assess intraoperative PTH level testing results against the hypothesis that the PTH assay may be performed almost immediately after thyroid gland removal. MethodsA retrospective cohort study. During total thyroidectomy surgery, the patients had PTH levels measured at the cutting time and again immediately after the thyroid gland is removed. Post-operatively, serial total blood calcium levels were obtained twice daily and recorded. ResultsAmong 63 enrolled patients, 39 had multinodular goiter, 15 thyroid carcinoma, and nine had Graves' disease. The mean age was 59.8 ± 15.3 years, 43 females. The mean PTH level before surgery was 45.8 ± 22.0 pg/mL. Post-operatively, 11/63 patients developed hypocalcemia with serum calcium levels <8 mg/dL. Four patients with ≥50 % decrease in PTH concentration were normocalcemic a day after surgery and were discharged early. Four patients with ≥70 % PTH decrease were treated accordingly during prolonged hospitalization and did not suffer from permanent hypocalcemia. The cut-off value of 70 % decrease after the gland removal was able to predict postoperative hypocalcemia with a sensitivity of 100 %, specificity 82.9 %, PPV 60.0 % and NPV 100 %. ConclusionMeasurements of intraoperative PTH may not be performed at fixed time intervals but after 1–2 min after removal of the thyroid gland. Defining those not at risk would allow the majority of patients to be waived from post-operative blood calcium testing and safely discharged early after surgery.

Low serum iPTH at the end of surgery is the earliest predictor of postoperative hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy

BackgroundThe most frequent complication of total thyroidectomy remains hypocalcemia due to low postoperative levels of serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH). The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of decreased iPTH at the end of surgery in predicting hypocalcemia. In addition, we examined the percentage decrease of iPTH as potential indicator of hypocalcemia.MethodsWe retrospectively collected the data of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy for benign and malignant diseases at our institution between 2010 and 2022. The iPTH level was measured before and at the end of surgery, and serum calcium levels on the first postoperative day. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical characteristics of patients with low iPTH were compared with patients with normal iPTH levels using ANOVA for continuous variables and χ2-tests for categorical variables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis evaluated the association of iPTH at the end of surgery and the relative reduction of iPTH with postoperative hypocalcemia.ResultsThe mean age of the 607 patients in this study was 55.6 years, and the female-to-male ratio was 5:1. Goiter was the most common indication for surgery (N = 382, 62.9%), followed by Graves’ disease (N = 135, 22.2%). The mean preoperative iPTH was 49.0 pg/ml, while the mean postoperative iPTH was 29.3 pg/ml. A total of 197 patients (32.5%) had an iPTH level below normal, 77 patients (39%), had iPTH levels of 10–15.0 pg/ml and 120 patients (61%) of < 10.0 pg/ml at the end of surgery. Among all patients, 124 (20.4%) developed hypocalcemia on the first postoperative day. The mean percentage of decrease of iPTH was highest among patients with iPTH < 10 pg/ml (76.9%, p < 0.01); this group of patients had also the highest rate of postoperative hypocalcemia on day one (45.0% vs. 26.0% vs 12.2%, p < 0.01).ConclusionsMeasurement of iPTH at the end of total thyroidectomy predicts patients who are at risk for postoperative hypocalcemia. The combination of low serum iPTH with a decrease in iPTH level of ≥ 50% may improve prediction of hypocalcemia compared to iPTH levels alone allowing for early calcium substitution in these patients at high risk of developing postoperative hypocalcemia.

Outcomes and predictors of complications of thyroidectomy in a scarce resource setting: Retrospective cross-sectional study

BackgroundOutcomes and predictors of complications of thyroidectomy are diverse and have been extensively studied, but data from our country and other African countries with high disease burdens are limited. ObjectiveTo evaluate the outcomes and predictors of complications of thyroidectomy among operated patients. MethodSingle institution retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted by reviewing charts from 365 patients who had undergone thyroidectomy on an elective basis between March 2018–February 2022. All patients who were admitted and underwent thyroidectomy were included in this study. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify risk factors. P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. ResultOverall, post-thyroidectomy complications occurred in 17 % of the cases. The two most common complications were hypocalcemia and voice change; the latter being due to injury of either external branch of superior laryngeal nerve or recurrent laryngeal nerve with an incidence of 4.9 % and 2.5 % respectively. Thyroidectomy performed by surgical residents and having total thyroidectomy were significantly associated with overall complications of thyroidectomy. Total thyroidectomy was found to be a risk factor for postoperative hypocalcemia (AOR = 12.24 (95%CI: 4.53, 19.65); P = 0.02). Younger age of the patient (AOR =0.3(95%CI, 0.12,0.51)) and prolonged duration of presentation (AOR = 2.53(95%CI, 1.17,7.76)) were detected predictors of voice change due to injury of either external branch of superior laryngeal nerve or recurrent laryngeal nerve. ConclusionThe rate of thyroidectomy complications is relatively similar to other studies. In this study demographic and clinical factors associated with increased risk of complications after thyroid surgery were identified. This information will be useful for educating patients about the risks of thyroid surgery.

Total thyroidectomy versus less-than-total thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid carcinoma of isthmus: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Papillary thyroid carcinoma of isthmus (PTCI) has a more aggressive nature, a higher rate of lymph node metastasis and tumor recurrence. Clinicians have different preferences for the surgical approach to PTCI, but there are no definitive guidelines. The purpose of this article is to compare the oncologic outcomes and complications of total thyroidectomy and less-than-total thyroidectomy for PTCI using meta-analysis. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases for articles that met the inclusion criteria, with an unlimited start date and an end date of February 19, 2023. Exclusion criteria were applied to filter out articles for further analysis. Ultimately, seven articles were used for analysis, all of which were retrospective studies. The MINORS scale was adopted to evaluate the quality of the included literature, and Review Manager 5.4 was used for data analysis. A total of 814 patients were included in the seven articles, including 401 in the less-than-total thyroidectomy group (trial group) and 413 in the total thyroidectomy group (control group). The results of the meta-analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the tumor recurrence rate between the two groups after total thyroidectomy or less-than-thyroidectomy for PTCI (odds ratio, 1.51; 95% confidence interval: 0.49, 4.65; P=0.47), and there was no statistical difference in the incidence of all postoperative complications between the two groups. There may be some limitations in this analysis, such as publication bias and the fact that the included articles were all retrospective studies with a certain degree of heterogeneity. PTCI patients with early staging and no significant lymph node metastases may be able to choose a more conservative surgical approach, which is less-than-total thyroidectomy. Patients with relatively late staging and significant preoperative lymph node metastases or extra thyroidal extension may opt for total thyroidectomy plus lymph node dissection in the central region and, if necessary, lymph node dissection in the lateral cervical region.

From ablation to operation: Unraveling the surgical outcomes and complications of thyroidectomy after radiofrequency ablation

BackgroundRadiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for thyroid nodules; however, concerns exist regarding its impact on subsequent thyroid surgery. We compared surgical outcomes and complications between patients undergoing thyroidectomy after radiofrequency ablation (post-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy group) and those without prior radiofrequency ablation (non-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy group). MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed thyroidectomy patients, comparing post-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy and non-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy groups, examining demographics, nodule characteristics, surgical techniques, and complications. ResultsThe study included 96 patients (73 in the non-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy group and 23 in the post-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy group). The mean age was 53.3 ± 14.4 years, with 78.1% female patients and 36.5% African American patients. Median operative time was similar between the post-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy (110 minutes) and the non-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy (92 minutes) cohorts (P = .40). Complications were reported in 13 patients, without significant differences between groups (P = .54). No permanent complications, including nerve injury or hypoparathyroidism, were reported in either cohort. Prior radiofrequency ablation treatment did not increase the risk of complications (odds ratio = 3.48, 95% confidence interval = 0.70–17.43, P = .16). ConclusionOur work found no differences in outcomes or safety in patients undergoing thyroidectomy with or without previous radiofrequency ablation treatment, potentiating the post-radiofrequency ablation thyroidectomy group as a safe management option. Accordingly, this may reassure both clinicians and patients of the safety of radiofrequency ablation in treating patients with thyroid nodules.