Classifying pain in transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy

Bacterial Colonization on Endoscopic Materials and Surgical Field Without Infections After Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy

INTRODUCTION

Our aim was to determine whether bacteria contamination occurred within the surgical field or on endoscopic equipment during surgery using the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participants were recruited from patients planned for TOETVA between May 2017 and December 2019. Bacterial samples were taken before and at the conclusion of the TOETVA procedure. The preoperative and postoperative samples were taken from the endoscopic materials and inferior oral vestibulum using a sterile flocked swab.

RESULTS

The study resulted in 480 samples (80 TOETVAs). No vestibular, port site, or neck infections occurred in any of the patients. Three (3.7%) out of 80 patients developed postoperative fever. Our results show different microbial communities during TOETVA. The most prevalent species detected were S treptococcus species. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that the degree of contamination depended on the sampling site (inferior vestibulum > equipment) ( P =0.03). In addition, the abundance of bacteria was affected by operative time ( P =0.013). There were no significant differences observed in isolation frequencies of bacteria in malignancy ( P =0.34).

CONCLUSIONS

TOETVA surgery is categorized as a "clean-contaminated" operation. A swab identified the common colonizers of oral microbiota on the endoscopic equipment and within the surgical field.

Postoperative Pain Following Transoral Thyroidectomy via Vestibular Approach and Cervical Thyroidectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via the vestibular approach (TOETVA) represents a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open thyroidectomy (OT). The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to comprehensively analyze and compare postoperative pain outcomes between conventional open thyroidectomy (COT) and TOETVA. We conducted a systematic search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Medline, Elton B. Stephens Company (EBSCO), and Google Scholar, to identify cohorts and randomized trials comparing postoperative pain outcomes between patients undergoing transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via the vestibular approach (TOETVA) and those undergoing conventional thyroidectomy. The search period spanned from the earliest available article up to January 15, 2022. Keywords such as "scarless thyroidectomy," "endoscopic transoral via vestibular thyroidectomy," "conventional thyroidectomy," "transcervical thyroidectomy," "postoperative pain," and "visual analog pain score" were utilized to retrieve relevant studies. A total of 1,291 patients from 11 studies were included in our analysis, with 10 studies originating from Asia and one from Europe. Among these studies, seven were prospective, while four were retrospective. The primary outcome measure was postoperative pain. Various statistical tests were also performed for data analysis, including the Chi-square and random effects model. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of studies. There was no significant statistical difference observed between the endoscopic transoral vestibular route and the conventional cervical approach in terms of visual analog scale (VAS) score, with an odds ratio of -0.37 and a 95% confidence interval ranging from -0.9 to 0.17. The overall effect had a P-value of 0.18. However, substantial heterogeneity was noted, with an I2 value for heterogeneity of 98% and a P-value for heterogeneity of less than 0.001. The Chi-square value was calculated as 364.02, and the main difference was 9. In comparison, TOETVA exhibited lower pain levels on the first day post-operation compared to conventional thyroidectomy, with an odds ratio of -1.36 and a 95% confidence interval ranging from -2.65 to -0.06. Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via the vestibular approach demonstrated superior outcomes compared to conventional thyroidectomy in terms of postoperative pain management on the first day following surgery. However, when considering overall pain management throughout the recovery period, no significant difference was observed between the two approaches. More extensive studies evaluating pain levels on the day of surgery and controlling for analgesic interventions are warranted.

Comparison of postoperative pain between transoral and conventional thyroidectomy: a propensity score-matched analysis

BACKGROUND

The extent of postoperative pain following transoral thyroidectomy is not well-understood and remains a subject of debate. This study aims to analyze and compare postoperative pain levels between patients undergoing transoral and conventional transcervical thyroidectomy.

METHODS

A prospective evaluation on postoperative pain was conducted in 310 patients undergoing conventional thyroidectomy and 194 undergoing transoral thyroidectomy. Pain levels were evaluated using the numerical rating scale (NRS, ranging from 0 to 10) through preoperative and postoperative questionnaires at specified time points: 1, 3, and 6 days, and 1 and 3 months following surgery. Propensity score-matched analysis was carried out based on six covariates: sex, age, body mass index, extent of thyroidectomy, tumor size, and central neck dissection.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching based on the six covariates, 121 patient pairs were identified from each group. Within this matched cohort, postoperative pain scores significantly worsened 1 day after surgery but showed progressive recovery up to 3 months post-surgery in both groups. The transoral group exhibited higher postoperative pain scores than the conventional group from day 1 (4.43 ± 2.6 vs. 3.11 ± 2.5, p < 0.001) to day 6 (1.76 ± 1.9 vs. 1.13 ± 1.6, p = 0.016) post-surgery, with no significant difference noted at 1 month. Among transoral procedures, pain scores were significantly higher for the endoscopic approach compared to the robotic approach on days 1 (5.52 ± 2.3 vs. 4.29 ± 2.3, p = 0.028) and 3 (3.52 ± 2.5 vs. 2.64 ± 2.0, p = 0.047) post-surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative pain was significantly higher in transoral thyroidectomy compared to conventional thyroidectomy up to 6 days post-surgery. Within the transoral group, the robotic procedure resulted in lower pain levels than the endoscopic approach during the early postoperative period.

Comparison of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach and open conventional thyroidectomy regardıng inflammatory responses, pain, and patient satisfaction: a prospective study

Introduction

The application of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is becoming widespread throughout the world. We primarily aimed to evaluate the severity of surgical trauma in TOETVA and conventional open thyroidectomy (COT) regarding the inflammatory response including the comparison of surgical stress markers [interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell (WBC)].

Material and method

This non-randomized prospective study enrolled two groups with 20 patients each: COT group and TOETVA group. Patients aged 18-65 years with benign thyroid disease; with fine needle aspiration biopsy results of Bethesda III, IV or Bethesda V, VI (<1 cm nodule); thyroid volume <50 cm3; nodule diameter <4 cm; female gender without a previous neck, chin, and/or oral surgery; without vocal cord paralysis preoperatively; and patients in euthyroid state were enrolled to the study. Preoperative, postoperative second hour, first day, and second day CRP, WBC, and IL-6 levels were evaluated. Pain intensity was evaluated with the visual analog scale (VAS) score on the 2nd and 12th hour, 1st and 2nd days postoperatively.

Results

All the patients were female and mean age was significantly higher in the COT group. The operative time was significantly longer in the TOETVA group. No significant difference was found between the two groups regarding IL-6 levels. In the TOETVA group, postoperative second hour WBC value (p = 0.044) and first (p = 0.002) and second day (p = 0.005) CRP values were significantly higher. In the TOETVA group, the lower lip and lower chin VAS scores were significantly higher at 2nd and 12th hour, on the first and second days. The anterior neck VAS score was significantly higher in the TOETVA group at the second hour (p = 0.025). General and cosmetic satisfactions were similar at the 15th and 30th days in both groups.

Conclusion

The longer operative time and higher postoperative CRP level and VAS score in the chin and lower lip in the TOETVA group suggested that the method is not a minimally invasive technique compared to COT. However, the presence of similar total complication rates and early postoperative general and esthetic satisfaction that improves over time in both groups suggests that the clinical effect of increased magnitude of systemic inflammatory response in TOETVA might be temporary and acceptable.

The usefulness and utilization of Gold-finger retractor for endoscopic thyroid surgery

Aims

In endoscopic surgery, the visual field is frequently obstructed by muscles, blood, and even smoke. To overcome this problem, we have developed a new detachable Gold-finger retractor for narrow-space surgery.

Methods

Gold-finger retractor was used in 30 patients to facilitate surgical field exposure and smoke discharge, while in 27 patients, percutaneous silk thread suspension was employed for the same purpose. Both groups underwent endoscopic unilateral thyroidectomy and unilateral central lymph node dissection via oral vestibular microincision combined with the axillary-assisted approach. A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the Gold-finger retractor and silk thread suspension in relation to intraoperative exposure effect, surgical fluency, surgeon's comfort, operation time, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay. This analysis was based on surgical video recordings and postoperative indicators.

Results

With Gold-finger retractor support, surgeons were able to perform meticulous operations. Complication rates were similar between the two groups, and no serious complications occurred. The number of lymph nodes dissected in the Gold-finger group was significantly greater than that in the routine group (12.43 ± 6.18 and 5.7 ± 2.95, respectively). Further analysis of surgeons' comfort (visibility and convenience in peeling) revealed that the Gold-finger group was significantly better. Electrosurgery smoke was removed effectively with Gold-finger, and the operation time was significantly reduced.

Conclusion

In thyroid surgery, Gold-fingers enhance visual field resolution, avoid muscle cutting, save time, and improve the surgical experience.

Management of surgical diseases of thyroid gland indications of the United Italian Society of Endocrine Surgery (SIUEC)

A task force of the United Italian society of Endocrine Surgery (SIUEC) was commissioned to review the position statement on diagnostic, therapeutic and health‑care management protocol in thyroid surgery published in 2016, at the light of new technologies, recent oncological concepts, and tailored approaches. The objective of this publication was to support surgeons with modern rational protocols of treatment that can be shared by health-care professionals, taking into account important clinical, healthcare and therapeutic aspects, as well as potential sequelae and complications. The task force consists of 13 members of the SIUEC highly trained and experienced in thyroid surgery. The main topics concern clinical evaluation and preoperative workup, patient preparation for surgery, surgical treatment, non-surgical options, postoperative management, prevention and management of major complications, outpatient care and follow-up.

Gasless submental-transoral combined approach endoscopic thyroidectomy: a new surgical technique

Background

The development of transoral endoscopic vestibular approach thyroidectomy (TOETVA) has been limited by inherent defects, such as mental nerve injury and carbon dioxide (CO₂)-related complications. Herein, we proposed a new technique without CO₂ called gasless submental-transoral combined approach endoscopic thyroidectomy (STET) to solve the problems in TOETVA.

Methods

We reviewed 75 patients who successfully underwent gasless STET using novel instruments at our institution from November 2020 to November 2021. A main incision of approximately 2 cm was made in the natural submental crease line and then combined with two vestibule incisions to complete the procedure. Demographic data, surgical technique and perioperative outcomes were retrospectively recorded.

Results

Thirteen male and sixty-two female patients with a mean age of 34.0 ± 8.1 years were enrolled in this study. Sixty-eight patients had papillary thyroid carcinomas and seven had benign nodules. We successfully performed all gasless STET without conversion to open surgery. The average postoperative hospital stay was 4.2 ± 1.8 days. One transient recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and two transient hypoparathyroidisms were observed. Three patients complained of slight lower lip numbness on the first postoperative day. One case of lymphatic fistula, subcutaneous effusion, and incision swelling occurred each, all of which were conservatively cured. One patient developed a recurrence six months after surgery.

Conclusions

Gasless STET using our own designed suspension system is technically safe and feasible with reasonable operative and oncologic results.

Modern Surgical Techniques of Thyroidectomy and Advances in the Prevention and Treatment of Perioperative Complications

Thyroid cancer is the most common cancer of the endocrine system, and, in recent years, there has been a phenomenon of overdiagnosis followed by subsequent overtreatment. This results in an increasing number of thyroidectomy complications being faced in clinical practice. In this paper, we present the current state of knowledge and the latest findings in the fields of modern surgical techniques, thermal ablation, the identification and assessment of parathyroid function, recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring and treatment and perioperative bleeding. We reviewed 485 papers, from which we selected 125 papers that are the most relevant. The main merit of this article is its comprehensive view of the subject under discussion-both general, concerning the selection of the appropriate method of surgery, and particular, concerning the selection of the appropriate method of prevention or treatment of selected perioperative complications.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA). Recommendations of the AFCE (Francophone Association of Endocrine Surgery) with the SFE (French Society of Endocrinology) and the SFMN (French Society of Nuclear Medicine)

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) can be proposed for selected patients with a thyroid volume<45mL and/or a nodule<4cm (for Bethesda category II, III or IV lesions), or<2cm (for Bethesda category V or VI lesions), with no suspicion of lateral nodal involvement or mediastinal extension who wish to avoid a cervical scar. Such patients should have satisfactory dental status, have been educated on the specific risks of the transoral route and the need for perioperative oral care, and also fully informed regarding the lack of proof of TOETVA effectiveness in terms of quality of life and patient satisfaction. The patient should be made aware of the possibility of postoperative pain in the neck cervical and chin, which may persist for several days to a few weeks after the intervention. Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy should be performed in centers with expertise in thyroid surgery.

Initial Experience With Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via the Submental and Vestibular Approach for the Treatment of Thyroid Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach is feasible and safe but has some unavoidable limitations, such as sensory changes in the center of the chin region. We aim to report our initial experience in performing transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via the submental and vestibular approach for the treatment of thyroid cancer.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients with thyroid cancer confirmed by fine-needle aspiration who underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy and central lymph node dissection via the submental and vestibular approaches between November 2019 and January 2020. Patients’ clinicopathological characteristics, operation details, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

Results

Fifteen surgeries were performed successfully. The mean ± standard deviation age of the patients was 37 ± 10.8 years, the average duration of surgery was 146.5 ± 34.6 min, and the median intraoperative blood loss was 11.1 ± 6.3 mL. None of the surgeries were converted to open thyroidectomy. According to postoperative pathology, all cases involved papillary thyroid carcinoma or papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. One patient developed transient recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis. No patient developed skin numbness at the center of the chin region.

Conclusions

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via the submental and vestibular approach is effective and safe in patients with thyroid cancer and does not lead to skin numbness at the center of the chin region. This technique is beneficial for surgeons less experienced in performing transoral thyroid surgery as it involves using a short and direct route to the thyroid gland, which can reduce the difficulty in establishing the first operative space to some extent.

Feasibility and Safety of Ambulatory Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via Vestibular Approach (TOETVA)

Background

In search of an ideal cosmesis, transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach (TOETVA) has recently been introduced to avoid a visible scar. Although ambulatory thyroid surgery is considered safe in carefully selected patients, this remains unclear for TOETVA.

Methods

All consecutive adult patients who underwent ambulatory TOETVA or open thyroid surgery at a French university hospital were prospectively enrolled from 12/2020 until 11/2021. The primary outcome was postoperative morbidity (recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy, re-intervention for bleeding, wound morbidity, or hospital readmission). The secondary outcome was quality of life (QoL), measured by a survey including a validated questionnaire (SF-12) and a modified thyroid surgery questionnaire six weeks after surgery.

Results

Throughout the study period, 374 patients underwent a unilateral lobectomy or isthmectomy in ambulatory setting, of which 34 (9%) as TOETVA (including 21 (62%) for a possible malignancy). In the TOETVA group, younger age (median 40 (IQR 35–50) vs. 51 (40–60) years, P < 0.001) and lower BMI (median 23.1 (20.9–25.4) vs. 24.9 (22.1–28.9) kg/m², P = 0.001) were noted. No cases were converted to open cervicotomy. TOETVA was at least as good as open cervicotomy with nil versus four (1%) re-interventions for bleeding, one temporary (5%) versus 13 (4%) (temporary) RLN palsies, and one (<1%) wound infection (open cervicotomy group). No hospital readmissions occurred in all ambulatory surgery patients. No differences were found in physical (P = 0.280) and mental (P = 0.569) QoL between TOETVA and open surgery.

Conclusions

In carefully selected patients, the feasibility and safety of ambulatory TOETVA are comparable to open surgery.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00268-022-06666-y.

Axillary channel-assisted TOETVA: An effective way to prevent mental nerve from iatrogenic injury?

Aim

To evaluate the protective effect of axillary channel-assisted (ACA) transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach on mental nerve.

Materials and Methods

From August 2018 to December 2020, 126 cases of thyroid micro-carcinoma patients who underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy were recruited retrospectively. Of those, 74 cases were performed with ACA trans-oral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (ACA_TOETVA) (V and A group), 52 cases received standard TOETVA (V group). On postoperative day 1 (POD1), nylon monofilament test and numbness visual analogue scale score were conducted to evaluate the severity of numbness within the mental area, facial expression was tested to determine the motor function of lower mandible and the thickness of cutaneous and subcutaneous layers was measured with ultrasound. The other observation parameters including the time for operation and intraoperative blood loss were carefully collected.

Results

On POD1, nylon monofilament test showed that scores in the V and A group (2.9 ± 0.3) were significantly higher than V group (1.7 ± 0.5), P < 0.01, u = 254. The completion percentage of facial expression in the V and A group was 90.5% (67/74) and significantly higher than in V group (21.2%, 11/52), P < 0.01, χ2 = 62.35. The thickness increment of cutaneous and subcutaneous layer was 2.2 ± 1.2 mm in the V and A group, which was significantly less than in the V group (4.0 ± 1.2 mm), P < 0.01, u = 605. Compared with V group, the operation time (113.4 ± 22.3 min vs. 127.7 ± 25.6 min, u = 1262) and intraoperative blood loss (43.5 ± 13.4 ml vs. 51.0 ± 14.1 ml, u = 1355) were also significantly less in the V and A group.

Conclusions

The ACA transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy possesses the protective effect on mental nerve and motor function of lower mandible and facilitates the operative procedures of TOETVA.

Thyroidectomy using a single-port cervico-mental angle approach

Background

Over the last two decades, several endoscopic thyroidectomy methods have been developed. However, there are some limitations in these procedures. To date, the optimal surgical approach for thyroid cancer has not yet been developed. This study reported the surgical operation steps, clinical outcomes, and experience of 30 patients who underwent trans-cervico-mental angle single-port endoscopic thyroidectomy (TCMASPET) at our centre.

Patients and Methods

A total of 30 patients were enrolled in the present study. Patients underwent unilateral or bilateral thyroidectomy through a cervico-mental angle incision of 2.48 ± 0.31 cm, after which the lymphoid adipose tissues in the central region were dissected.

Results

All surgeries were successfully completed. Two patients underwent bilateral thyroid carcinoma resection with bilateral central region lymph node dissection, 23 patients received unilateral thyroid cancer resection with unilateral central region lymph node dissection, four patients underwent unilateral thyroid resection, and one patient received bilateral thyroid resection with unilateral central region lymph node dissection. No permanent post-operative complications were observed.

Conclusions

TCMASPET was a safe and feasible approach that was relatively easy to perform. This approach may expand the indications for endoscopic thyroidectomy while maintaining excellent cosmetic outcomes.

Working Space Creation in Transoral Thyroidectomy: Pearls and Pitfalls

Simple Summary

Transoral thyroidectomy accesses the thyroid gland through three incisions in the oral vestibule. The cosmetic outcome was excellent since no scar was observed on the body surface. However, it is challenging to create a working space using this new approach. Unconventional but severe complications can also occur. Our review summarizes the tips regarding working space creation in transoral thyroidectomy and tricks for preventing complications.

Abstract

Transoral thyroidectomy is a novel technique that uses three small incisions hidden in the oral vestibule to remove the thyroid gland. It provides excellent cosmetic results and outcomes comparable to the open approach. One of the main obstacles for this technique is the creation of a working space from the lip and chin to the neck. The anatomy of the perioral region and the top-down surgical view are both unfamiliar to general surgeons. As a result, inadequate manipulation might easily occur and would lead to several unconventional complications, such as mental nerve injury, carbon dioxide embolism, and skin perforation, which are rarely observed in open surgery. Herein, we summarize the basic concepts, techniques, and rationales behind working space creation in transoral thyroidectomy to assist surgeons in obtaining an adequate surgical field while eliminating preventable complications.

Scarless total thyroidectomy via transoral endoscopic vestibular approach: initial case series in a developing Asian country

Conventional open thyroidectomy may leave a visible scar postoperatively and can lead to impaired quality of life. Since 2016, the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach (TOETVA) has gained popularity due to being a true 'scarless' procedure. However, minimally invasive thyroidectomy has not been widely adopted in the Philippines yet. From August 2019 to December 2019, nine patients (mean thyroid nodule size of 3.1 cm) underwent TOETVA with one open conversion due to adherent papillary cancer. Majority had a blood loss of <100 ml, whereas mean operative time was 149.8 ± 20.5 minutes. Five patients developed hypocalcemia (three transient), whereas two patients reported transient lower lip numbness. TOETVA is a safe and feasible novel procedure for both benign and malignant thyroid diseases. Care must be taken in selecting patients who opt for TOETVA, and that surgeons should reassess their limitations before implementing this technique in their surgical practice.

Complications of Trans-oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach: A Systematic Review

This review focuses on complications linked to trans-oral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach (TOETVA) and aimed to elucidate the procedure's initial safety profile. According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), Pubmed, Embase, and the Cochrane databases were screened till May 2021. Twenty-eight articles, nine cohorts and nineteen case series, met the inclusion criteria. Procedure-related complications were analyzed, the most important being hypoparathyroidism: transient (range=0.94-22.2%), permanent (range=1.33-2.22%), and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury: transient (range=1.9-8.8%) and permanent (range=0.59-1.42%). Surgical trauma related complications, the most prevalent being seroma, emphysema, and hematoma accounted for 2.91%. Null mortality was reported. Although current evolving experience indicates that TOETVA is safe and linked to acceptable complication rates, the method needs to be compared with the gold standard of traditional thyroidectomy in the context of sufficiently numbered cohorts and ultimately randomized controlled trials.

Transoral and submental thyroidectomy using intraoperative nerve stimulation and indocyanin green fluorescence imaging

There is a recent proliferation of clinical studies about the minimally invasive scarless thyroid surgery. The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) carries a great potential for being scarless surgery via a short dissection flap. However, TOETVA has limitations in extracting larger thyroid tumours via the transoral vestibular incision and due to its potential damage to the branches of the mental nerve. The rapidly evolving surgical innovations have now introduced transoral and submental thyroidectomy (TOaST) approach that allows extraction of large thyroid tumours with less flap dissection and minimal postoperative pain. We present a 39-year-old man with a large multinodular goitre. The patient was euthyroid with moderate to severe compression symptoms of difficulty in breathing and swallowing. We performed a TOaST procedure using intraoperative neuromonitoring and indocyanin green fluorescence imaging with an uneventful recovery. This is a first case report from the middle east region that will pave the way to large clinical trials to determine the efficacy and safety of TOaST.

The sensorimotor changes of the lower lip and chin after transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach

The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) can lead to abnormal sensorimotor changes in the lower lip and chin because of its incision design. This study aimed to explore the surgical outcomes of these changes after TOETVA. A total of 122 patients who underwent TOETVA were reviewed. The original incision design was used for the 39 patients in group A and a modified incision design was used for the 83 patients in group B. The sensorimotor changes in the lower lip and chin were compared. Varying degrees of paresthesia of the lower lip and chin (PoLC) were noted in all group A patients. Approximately 20.5% of group B patients did not suffer from PoLC, and the degree of PoLC in group B was significantly lower (P < 0.001). Abnormal motor function of the lower lip was noted for 23.1% of the patients in group A and 2.4% of those in group B. The incision design plays an important role in the morbidity of sensorimotor changes in the lower lip and chin. Our modified incision design seems minimally invasive and feasible for patients who undergo TOETVA.

Pictorial essay of vestibular incision outcomes from transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy

PURPOSE

The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has emerged as a new treatment option for patients with selected thyroid disease requiring surgery. The aim of this pictorial essay is to illustrate the healing outcomes of the vestibular incisions.

METHODS

TOETVA patients were recruited at two Centers in China and Italy. TOETVA is initiated with one 10-20-mm median incision in the center of the oral vestibule 10 mm above the inferior labial frenulum, and two 5-mm lateral incisions, just below the lower lip near the labial commissure. Healing of the vestibular incision was monitored through serial photographs 1, 3, 7, 30, and 90 days after surgery. Outcomes were evaluated by Landry's score, time to healing, issues affecting wound outcomes, scar, fibrin, granulation, necrotic tissue formation, and infections.

RESULTS

Results of TOETVA were monitored in 52 patients. There were no postoperative infections. All lateral incisions demonstrated favorable surgical outcomes. Landry's criteria scores indicated worse outcomes for the median incisions vs. the lateral ones (p<0.05). Median incisions healed well in 65.4% of patients, but 34.6% of patients had visible scars from the median incision 90 days after surgery. Eight (15.4%) had cicatricial diathesis, seven (13.5%) experienced displacement of the stitches, and three (5.8%) developed synechia with gingiva. When the central vestibular incision was <10mm from the gingiva, patients tended to form synechia (60%). There were no significant differences in wound healing between the Chinese and Italian patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of vestibular incision healing is essential to provide practical TOETVA clinical guide and to define optimal outcomes evaluation for transoral surgeons. Vestibular wound problems were confined only to the central incision.

TransOral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via Submental and Vestibular Approach: A Preliminary Report

Purpose: Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach (TOETVA), with its excellent cosmetic effect, has become increasingly popular worldwide. Nonetheless, anatomic obstacles have limited its development to a certain extent. Here, we present our preliminary outcomes of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via submental and vestibular approach (TOETSMVA), which can overcome those limitations. Methods: From November 2019 to March 2020, we performed TOETSMVA in 21 consecutive patients with thyroid carcinoma at Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University. A 1.5-cm lateral incision was made at two fingers below the mandible; two 5-mm incisions were made in the vestibule near the first molars; TOETSMVA was completed through these incisions. The demographic data and surgical outcomes of the patients were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Twenty-one patients with a mean age of 37.5 ± 10.4 years were incorporated into this study. Fourteen patients had papillary thyroid micro-carcinomas, two had papillary thyroid carcinomas, and five had benign nodules. Eight patients had lymph node metastases. All surgeries were performed successfully without conversion to open thyroidectomy. The mean operation time was 138.8 ± 33.2 min; the average hospital stay was 3.3 ± 0.8 days. No patients developed cutaneous paralysis in the midline chin region. Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis was observed in one patient. There was no evidence of postoperative bleeding, infection, tetany, or other complications. Conclusion: TOETSMVA was shown to be a safe and advisable alternative for selected patients. This approach can overcome the limitations of TOETVA without sacrificing cosmetic results.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach in a patient with Class III goitre (operative steps and video)

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has recently become a hot research topic due to the advantage of leaving no scar, but, according to most centers, its indication is restricted to the size of thyroid gland. Here we report a case of a female patient with Class III goitre who successfully underwent TOETVA (video attached). A 53-year-old woman with a previous history of chest keloidosis presented with a history of neck swelling for 3 years and was diagnosed as Hashimoto's thyroiditis with no nodules. The patient insisted that she undergo a TOETVA procedure in our hospital. Compared to the traditional TOETVA, several techniques were applied in this operation to ensure the resection and removal of the thyroid gland: with the dissection of the mental nerve and using the lateral approach to the thyroid gland. The total volume of thyroid gland was 205 mL. The operating time was 195 min. No complications were incurred. The numbness of the lip and chin was measured by the "two-points discrimination" method with several aspects (touch, pain, temperature) at different times to evaluate mental nerve injury. She felt the numbness during the first operative day but it was almost completely relieved in the third postoperative month. To our knowledge, this is the largest thyroid gland reported removed with TOETVA procedure. By carefully designing the operative steps, it is feasible to use the transoral approach in patients who have a benign thyroid disease with a Class III goitre if the patient strongly desires that operation.

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) in Thyroiditis

BACKGROUND

Parenchymal fibrosis, which develops in the case of thyroiditis, makes thyroidectomy difficult and increases complication rates. Similar concerns exist within minimally invasive thyroid surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) procedure in patients with thyroiditis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data of 56 patients who underwent TOETVA between February 2018 and March 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were classified as those who had lymphocytic or Hashimoto thyroiditis (group T) and those who did not (group NT) in the postoperative pathology results. Results were evaluated in terms of intraoperative, postoperative findings, and complications.

RESULTS

All patients were female individuals with a median age of 43 (21-76). There were 21 (37%) patients in group T and 35 (63%) patients in group NT. Mean operation times were 174.2±37.4 and 201.4±45.6 minutes in groups T and NT (P=0.025), respectively, and were statistically shorter in group T. Blood loss was 37.9±44.5 and 34.6±46.8 mL (P=0.811) in groups T and NT, respectively. Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy occurred in 1 patient (5%) in group T, 1 (3%) in group NT (P=0.712), and transient hypoparathyroidism occurred in 3 patients (14%) in group T and in 7 (20%) in group NT. There was no difference in terms of intraoperative and postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

Although thyroiditis is a condition that complicates thyroidectomy, TOETVA can be applied with similar complication rates in patients with thyroiditis.

Recurrent laryngeal nerve management in transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy

INTRODUCTION

The mechanism of recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury was investigated during a TransOral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA).

METHODS

The function of 185 nerves at risk (NAR) was recorded with intermitted intraoperative neural monitoring (I-IONM). The RLN electromyography (EMG) was delineated during: (a) a pre-dissection vagal nerve stimulation; (b) a RLN stimulation at initial visualization; (c) at nerve dissection; and (d) at the final verification of the entire RLN route. The location, genesis, segmental or diffuse and the outcomes of RLN injuries were catalogued.

RESULTS

Twelve nerves (6.4%) lost the EMG signal and the incidences of temporary and permanent RLN dysfunction were 5.9% and 0.5%. A disrupted point (type 1 injury) could be identified in 7/12 nerves (58%). Five (42%) nerve injuries were classified as global (type 2). Of the seven type 1 injuries, 3 lesions occurred at the RLN laryngeal entry point during the nerve identification. Four type 1 injuries were at the distal 1 cm of the RLN course and during the early nerve dissection. No proximal (>2 cm) injuries occurred. The mechanisms of the injuries were thermal (58%) during the energy-based device use at the ligament of Berry dissection or at the dividing small branches of the inferior thyroid artery. Two (16%) traction injuries occurred during the early nerve dissection. In 2 cases we could not elucidate the mechanism of RLN injury (16%) and 1 injury (8%) was caused by the connective tissue constricting band of. The thermal RLN lesions had longer recovery times.

CONCLUSIONS

The RLN palsy occurs in TOETVA, even when combined with an endoscopic magnification, IONM, early nerve identification, cranial to caudal dissection and top-down view. The thermal RLN injury was the most frequent cause and all injuries occurred at the distal RLN course.

Strategies for superior thyroid pole dissection in transoral thyroidectomy: a video operative guide

BACKGROUND

The dissection of the superior thyroid gland pole is challenging when using the in TransOral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) due to (a) the cranio-caudal approach, (b) cranial-caudal view, and (c) the restriction of maneuverability inside the narrow neck air pocket.

METHODS

In this paper and operative video guide, a series of TOETVA's tips and tricks are presented with an emphasis on the strategies for a safe approach to the superior thyroid gland pole structures.

RESULTS

Management of the upper thyroid pole structures includes: (a) use of a 5 mm/30°-45° endoscope; (b) retraction ports up to the limit of the lower jaw edge; (c) lateral retraction of 1/3 of the cranial strap muscles; (d) isthmectomy; (e) cutting the sternothyroid muscle cranially for 1 cm; (f) retraction of the thyroid upwards and laterally; (g) monitoring the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve, and (h) sealing individual vessel branches.

CONCLUSION

Access to the superior thyroid pole space through the TOETVA approach presents some challenges, particularly when accessing thyroid vessels or nodules located or displaced more cranially. Strategies that enhance a critical view of the superior thyroid gland structures can protect them from damage and have the potential to improve the safety of the TOETVA and decrease potential conversion rates.

Transoral thyroid surgery vestibular approach: does size matter anymore?

BACKGROUND

Various approaches for endoscopic and minimally invasive thyroid operations have been reported, with some becoming popular to date. The aim of these procedures is to reduce and prevent visible scars in the neck. This led to the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) technique applicable in small thyroid specimen. To amend TOETVA and to broaden the indication for transoral thyroid surgery, our aim was to combine the TOETVA with the retroauricular endoscopic cephalic access thyroid surgery (EndoCATS) facelift approach.

METHODS

After successful implementation of the TOETVA technique in 2017, we evaluated the transoral technique regarding feasibility and safety in well-selected patients in Germany and Austria. With the combination of TOETVA and EndoCATS, we were able to optimize the extraction process of the specimen by avoiding damage to the thyroid capsule and to broaden the indication of transoral surgery by operating on thyroid glands with higher volume. Patients' characteristics, surgical outcome and complications were determined.

RESULTS

Seventy-one transoral procedures were performed in 70 patients. The TOETVA procedure was performed in 60 patients, and 10 female patients underwent TOVARA with transoral thyroid lobe mobilization and removal of the specimen via the retroauricular access. Overall, median operation time was 205 min (range 96-370 min) and permanent RLNP rate was 1% accordant to 99 nerves at risk (39 hemithyroidectomies, 29 total thyroidectomies, 2 parathyroid resections, and 1 thyroglossal cyst resection). No conversion to conventional open surgery was necessary. Long-term mental nerve injury occurred in two patients. No infection was identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Transoral thyroid and parathyroid surgery via the vestibular approach is both feasible and safe in Western Europe. The combination of the TOETVA with the retroauricular endoscopic cephalic access thyroid surgery (EndoCATS) facelift approach, called TOVARA, is a promising opportunity to allow for thyroid surgery without a visible scar in specimen with volume of more than 40 ml also.

Postoperative drain after transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) with single incision

OBJECTIVE

To find the optimal size of a drain for the reliable drainage and the best cosmetic result in TOETVA. To explore the normal drainage flow rate after TOETVA.

METHODS

A prospective randomized controlled trial was performed in a single center from December 2016 to December 2018. One hundred and fifty-three (153) patients had TOETVA with a single incision and were randomly divided into two groups. Self-made drainage tubes with a small diameter (outer diameter 2.0 mm, inner diameter 1.0 mm) were used in 80 patients (experimental group). No. 8 tubes were used in 73 patients (control group). The clinical characteristics and results between both groups were compared by t test or chi-square test, and the results of normal drainage flow rate were calculated.

RESULTS

The experimental group had a longer intraoperative tube-inserting time, compared with the control group (9.5 ± 2.5 min vs. 5.6 ± 1.4 min, p = 0.001), a smaller scar six months after the operation (1.8 ± 2.3 mm vs. 3.1 ± 2.6 mm, p = 0.002), and a lower Vancouver Scar Scale score at both one month (3.20 ± 1.44 vs. 4.19 ± 1.92, p = 0.001) and six months after the operation(1.43 ± 1.84 vs. 2.40 ± 2.37, p = 0.006). The drainage volume, pain score on the first day, postoperative complications (tube blockage, air leakage, subcutaneous hydrops, hematoma, regional infection), and the extubation time were not significantly different. The average drainage of 148 patients without postoperative complications was 78.3 ± 10.9 ml. The cumulative drainage within 8 h, and 32 h after the operation accounted for 53.2% and 91.9% of the total drainage, respectively. The residual drainage at 32 h was estimated to be 6.5 ± 2.9 ml (P95 = 11.0 ml). A linear regression equation between total volume (V_t) and the size of resected tissue (S) was established: V_t = 1.625 S + 56.604 (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

In TOETVA, a small drain can provide a good cosmetic appearance and reliable drainage. The main exudation period of the wound is within 8 h after the operation. If a residual volume of less than 11 ml is considered to be self-absorbable, the shortest safe extubation point for 95% of patients should be 32 h after the operation.

Comparison of parathyroid hormone kinetics in endoscopic thyroidectomy via bilateral areola with open thyroidectomy

Background

In this study, we aimed to compare the kinetics of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) during the perioperative period of endoscopic thyroidectomy via bilateral areola approach (ETBAA) in the same period, following a traditional open thyroidectomy approach (OTA).

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study of patients who were undergoing thyroidectomy and level VI clearance. Patients who had been affected by papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) were stratified into three groups: those eligible for endoscopic treatment (ETBAA); patients who were eligible for ETBAA but had opted for OTA (OTA-L); and patients who were not suitable for endoscopic intervention (OTA-H). A process for locating parathyroid glands was utilized to stratify gland dissection laboriousness. In Type A, the gland is firmly fixed to thyroid gland. This type can be sub-classified into three subtypes. A1: the parathyroid gland is attached to the inherent thyroid capsule. A2: the gland is partially embedded in the thyroid gland. A3: the gland is located in the thyroid tissue. Type B is defined as a gland which is separated from the thyroid gland. The iPTH was sampled at wound closure.

Results

There were 100 patients in each group. We found a significant difference between the ETBAA and OTA-H groups for type A2, as well as a loss of parathyroid glands and a number of parathyroid transplantation procedures. The endoscopic group was treated during an earlier stage of thyroid cancer. The iPTH profile of each group decreased, although this was the most consistent in the OTA-H group. A comparison of ETBAA with OTA-L demonstrates that the iPTH level change is similar.

Conclusion

There is no advantage of endoscopic treatment for preserving parathyroid function.