Epidemiological and economic trends in inpatient and outpatient thyroidectomy in the United States, 1996-2006

Inpatient total thyroidectomy costs and outcomes vary regionally: A nationwide study

Objectives

While it is known that surgical costs continue to rise in the United States, there is little information about the specific underlying factors for this variation in many common procedures. This study investigates the influence of geographic location and hospital demographics on hospital cost and postoperative outcomes in adult patients undergoing total thyroidectomy (TT).

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample was queried for patients who underwent primary TT between 2016 and 2017. Multivariable analyses were conducted to determine estimates and odds ratios (OR) between various hospital factors and total cost, prolonged length of stay (LOS), and non-home discharge. Reference categories were small bed-size and Northeast region.

Results

A weighted total of 16,880 patients with mean age of 50.6 years were included. Most patients were female (73.8%), White (57.0%), and treated at Southern (32.4%), large bed-size (65.1%), and urban teaching (82.7%) hospitals. Medium and large bed-size hospitals were associated with a 6.5% (p < .001) and 7.5% (p < .001) reduction in TT cost, respectively. TT cost was greatest in the West, associated with a 32.4% increase (p < .001). Patients in the Midwest (OR 1.366, p = .011) had prolonged LOS, whereas patients treated in the Midwest (OR 0.436, p < .001), South (OR 0.438, p < .001), and West (OR 0.502, p < .001) had lower odds of non-home discharge.

Conclusion

There is geographic variation in both costs and outcomes of TT. Although Northeastern hospitals had the lowest costs for TT, they were associated with the greatest odds for non-home discharge.Level of evidence: IV.

Gastrointestinal surgery, malabsorptive conditions, and postoperative hypocalcemia after neck surgery

BACKGROUND

Postoperative hypocalcemia is a common complication of thyroid and parathyroid surgery. Patients with prior gastric bypass face increased risk of postoperative hypocalcemia, but the impact of other malabsorptive conditions is not well understood. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between multiple medical and surgical malabsorptive states and hypocalcemia after thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy and/or parathyroidectomy in Optum's deidentified Clinformatics Data Mart Database (2004-2022). Patients were categorized as having surgical (foregut/midgut: gastrectomy, intestinal bypass, enterectomy, enterostomy, pancreatectomy, or hindgut: colectomy/colostomy) or medical (Crohn or Celiac disease) malabsorptive conditions. The primary outcomes were early (<7 days) and late (7-365 days) postoperative hypocalcemia. Logistic regression was performed to determine the associations between malabsorptive conditions and outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 25,400 patients (56.9% total thyroidectomy, 40.8% parathyroidectomy, and 2.4% both procedures), 4.0% had a pre-existing malabsorptive condition. Early postoperative hypocalcemia occurred in 8.8% of patients, and late hypocalcemia in 18.3%. Thyroidectomy was associated with a greater likelihood of hypocalcemia than parathyroidectomy (odds ratio: 1.22; P < .001). Pancreatectomy was associated with twice the adjusted odds of postoperative hypocalcemia (odds ratio: 2.27; P = .031) across both procedures. Patients with prior foregut/midgut surgery were at higher risk after total thyroidectomy (odds ratio: 1.65, P = .002). This association was significant in late (odds ratio: 1.82, P < .001) rather than early hypocalcemia (odds ratio: 1.33, P = .175). Hindgut surgery and medical malabsorption did not demonstrate such associations.

CONCLUSION

Prior foregut and midgut resections may predispose patients to postoperative hypocalcemia, particularly in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy.

From routine to rescue: Thyroidectomy for life-threatening thyrotoxicosis

BACKGROUND

Thyroidectomies are routinely same-day elective procedures. The aim of this study was to investigate outcomes in patients who underwent uncommon urgent thyroidectomy.

METHODS

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.

RESULTS

Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. The majority were female (60%) and Black (60%) with a mean age of 41 ± 14 years. At admission, 76.6% had undetectable thyrotropin levels (<0.01 µU/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 8 days (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 30 days, 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.

CONCLUSIONS

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.

Safety of thyroidectomy as day care surgery at a rural setting in Eastern Uganda

BACKGROUND

The practice of day care surgery is less embraced in many low-middle-income countries (LMIC), and even less for some procedures considered major such as thyroidectomy. Here we examine the safety of day care thyroidectomy at Kyabirwa Surgical Center, a stand-alone day care surgery center in rural Eastern Uganda.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted between 2019 and 2023. All patients who had day care thyroidectomy were included. Demographics, diagnosis, investigation findings, pathology reports, and surgery outcomes were collected. Postoperative follow-up data up to 30 days were also collected. Data were analyzed using R version 4.3.2.

RESULTS

A total of 51 patients underwent same-day thyroidectomy, with an average age of 44.9 ± 12.1 years and 98% female. Procedures included total thyroidectomy (5, 9.8%), subtotal thyroidectomy (26, 51.0%), and lobectomy (20, 39.2%). Average size of the glands was 7.9 ± 2.21 cm. The majority 46 (90.2%) were of benign pathology. All patients were discharged by the evening of the same day. Complications encountered included hypocalcemia (1), hypertrophic scar (1), seroma (2), and transient recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (1). Overall complications rate was 9.8%. Gland size was statistically significant between patients with no complications (7.68 ± 2.06 cm) versus complications (9.90 ± 2.82, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

With overall low complication rates, these findings suggest that thyroidectomy can safely be performed on a day care basis in a rural LMIC setting with suboptimal health care delivery.

Initial Experience With Ultra-High-Definition 3D Exoscope in Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

BACKGROUND

Operation with a 3D exoscope has recently been introduced in clinical practice. The exoscope consists of two cameras placed in front of the operative field. Images are shown on a large 3D screen with high resolution. The system can be used to enhance precise dissection and provides new possibilities for improved ergonomics, fluorescence, and other optical-guided modalities.

METHODS

Initial experience with the ultra-high-definition (4K) 3D exoscope in thyroid and parathyroid operations. The exoscope (OrbEyeTM) was mounted on a holding system (Olympus).

RESULTS

We used the exoscope in parathyroidectomy (N = 6) and thyroidectomy (N = 6). Immediate advantages and disadvantages were discussed and recorded. The learning curve for use of the exoscope may be shorter for surgeons with training in endoscopic or robotic procedures. There may be improved ergonomics compared with normal open-neck operations. Further, the optical guided operations can be used with fluorescence and have potential for different on-lay techniques in the future. The 4 K 3D image quality is state-of-art and is highly appreciated during fine surgical dissection and eliminates the need for loupes.

CONCLUSION

In several ways, using the ORBEYE™ in thyroid and parathyroid surgery provides the surgical team with a new and enhanced experience. This includes improved possibility for teaching, surgical ergonomics, and a 4K 3D camera with a powerful magnification system. However, it is not clear if utilization of these features would improve surgical outcomes. Furthermore, the ORBEYE™ lacks incorporation of parathyroid autofluorescence, and the current costs for the system do not facilitate general access to exoscope assisted operations.

Clinical outcomes of outpatient thyroidectomy: A systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this meta-analysis is to investigate the safety of outpatient thyroidectomy based on 24-h and same-day discharge criteria.

METHODS

CENTRAL, Embase, PubMed, and Scopus were searched. A meta-analysis of selected studies was performed. The review was registered prospectively with PROSPERO (CRD42022361134).

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies met the eligibility criteria, with a total of 74328 patients undergoing thyroidectomy in an outpatient setting based on 24-h discharge criteria. Overall postoperative complications after outpatient thyroidectomies were 5.7% (95%CI: 0.049-0.065; I2 ​= ​97.3%), consisting of hematoma (0.4%; 95%CI: 0.003-0.005; I2 ​= ​83.4%), recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (0.4%; 95%CI: 0.003-0.006; I2 ​= ​93.5%), and hypocalcemia (1.6%; 95%CI: 0.012-0.019; I2 ​= ​93.7%). The rate of readmission was 1.1% (95%CI: 0.007-0.015; I2 ​= ​95.4%). Results were similar for same-day criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis demonstrated that outpatient thyroidectomy is a safe procedure in the management of thyroid disease for selected patients.

Benefits and Risks Associated With Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Thyroid Operations

INTRODUCTION

Prophylactic antibiotics (pABX) are commonly used prior to thyroid operations despite clean case classification. The objective of this study was to assess the association of antibiotic prophylaxis with the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) among patients undergoing thyroidectomy.

METHODS

We performed a cohort study of all adults undergoing thyroid operations at a tertiary referral center from 2010 to 2019. The primary outcome was 30-d SSI, based on diagnosis codes and/or antibiotic use and further classified based on whether wound aspiration or operative washout were required. The association between pABX and SSI was determined using propensity score matching based on patient demographics and comorbidities likely to influence SSI risk.

RESULTS

We identified 2411 patients who underwent thyroid operations, of whom 1358 (56.3%) received pABX. Patients who received pABX had a higher mean Charlson-Deyo Comorbidity Index score than patients who did not (3.6 versus 2.9). The unadjusted incidence of SSI was higher in patients who received pABX than those who did not (6.1% versus 3.4%, P < 0.001). Few patients with SSI required aspiration or operative washout (0.29% who received pABX versus 0.19% who did not). After propensity score matching, pABX use showed no association with overall 30-d SSI (odds ratio 1.38, 95% confidence interval 0.84-2.26) or SSI requiring procedural intervention (odds ratio 3.01, 95% confidence interval 0.24-158).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large cohort of patients with a high prevalence of comorbidity, use of pABX was not associated with a decreased incidence of SSI following thyroid surgery. Efforts should be made to deimplement low-value pABX use in thyroid surgery.

Preference Phenotypes in Thyroid Nodule Management: A Patient Segmentation Approach

OBJECTIVE

Patient preferences regarding thyroid nodules are poorly understood. Our objective is to (1) employ a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to explore risk tradeoffs in thyroid nodule management, and (2) segment respondents into preference phenotypes.

STUDY DESIGN

DCE.

SETTING

Thyroid surgery clinic, online survey.

METHODS

A DCE including 5 attributes (cancer risk, voice concerns, incision/scar, medication requirement, follow-up frequency) was refined with qualitative patient and physician input. A final DCE including 8 choice tasks, demographics, history, and risk tolerance was administered to participants with and without thyroid disease. Analysis was performed with multinomial logit modeling and latent class analysis (LCA) for preference phenotyping.

RESULTS

A total of 1026 respondents were included; 480 had thyroid disease. Risk aversion was associated with increasing age (P < .001), female gender (P < .001), and limited education (P = .038), but not previous thyroid disease. Cancer risk most significantly impacted decision-making. Of the total possible utility change from thyroid nodule decision-making, 47.8% was attributable to variations in cancer risk; 20.0% from medication management; 14.9% from voice changes; 12.7% from incision/scar; and 4.6% from follow-up concerns. LCA demonstrated 3 classes with distinct preference phenotypes: the largest group (64.2%) made decisions primarily based on cancer risk; another group (18.2%) chose based on aversion to medication; the smallest group (17.7%) factored in medication and cancer risk evenly.

CONCLUSION

Cancer risk and the need to take medication after thyroid surgery factor into patient decision-making most heavily when treating thyroid nodules. Distinct preference phenotypes were demonstrated, reinforcing the need for individual preference assessment before the treatment of thyroid disorders.

Noninvasive monitoring of the vagus nerve during thyroid surgery using cutaneous adhesive and needle electrodes: What is the optimal configuration?

OBJECTIVE

Endotracheal tube (ETT) surface electrodes are used to monitor the vagus nerve (VN), recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), and external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) during thyroid and parathyroid surgery. Alternative nerve monitoring methods are desirable when intubation under general anesthesia is not desirable or possible. In this pilot study, we compared the performance of standard ETT electrodes to four different noninvasive cutaneous recording electrode types (two adhesive electrodes and two needle electrodes) in three different orientations.

METHODS

The VN was stimulated directly during thyroid and parathyroid surgery using a Prass stimulator probe. Electromyographic (EMG) responses for each patient were recorded using an ETT plus one of the following four cutaneous electrode types: large-foot adhesive, small-foot adhesive, long-needle and short-needle. Each of the four electrode types was placed in three orientations: (1) bilateral, (2) ipsilateral mediolateral, and (3) ipsilateral craniocaudal.

RESULTS

Four surgical cases were utilized for data collection with the repetitive measures obtained in each subject. Bilateral electrode orientation was superior to ipsilateral craniocaudal and ipsilateral mediolateral orientations. Regardless of electrodes type, all amplitudes in the bilateral orientation were >100 μV. When placed bilaterally, the small-foot adhesive and the long-needle electrodes obtained the highest EMG amplitudes as a percentage of ETT amplitudes.

CONCLUSION

Cutaneous electrodes could potentially be used to monitor the VN during thyroid and parathyroid procedures. Different electrode types vary in their ability to record amplitudes and latencies. Bilateral orientation improves EMG responses in all electrode types. Additional validation of cutaneous electrodes as an alternative noninvasive method to monitor the VN is needed.

The Role of Radiofrequency Ablation in Benign and Malignant Thyroid Nodules

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offers a minimally invasive solution for benign, autonomously functioning (AFTN), and malignant thyroid nodules. The technique utilizes high-frequency alternating current to induce coagulative necrosis, effectively destroying target tissue. RFA is performed in the outpatient setting with local anesthesia and sonographic guidance. RFA is effective in producing substantial volume reduction rates in benign nodules and is emerging as a favorable option in AFTN and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. RFA's advantages include lower complication rates, minimal scarring, and improved quality-of-life outcomes compared to surgery. However, its efficacy in larger and recurrent malignancies requires further investigation.

STR mutations on chromosome 15q cause thyrotropin resistance by activating a primate-specific enhancer of MIR7-2/MIR1179

Thyrotropin (TSH) is the master regulator of thyroid gland growth and function. Resistance to TSH (RTSH) describes conditions with reduced sensitivity to TSH. Dominantly inherited RTSH has been linked to a locus on chromosome 15q, but its genetic basis has remained elusive. Here we show that non-coding mutations in a (TTTG)4 short tandem repeat (STR) underlie dominantly inherited RTSH in all 82 affected participants from 12 unrelated families. The STR is contained in a primate-specific Alu retrotransposon with thyroid-specific cis-regulatory chromatin features. Fiber-seq and RNA-seq studies revealed that the mutant STR activates a thyroid-specific enhancer cluster, leading to haplotype-specific upregulation of the bicistronic MIR7-2/MIR1179 locus 35 kb downstream and overexpression of its microRNA products in the participants' thyrocytes. An imbalance in signaling pathways targeted by these micro-RNAs provides a working model for this cause of RTSH. This finding broadens our current knowledge of genetic defects altering pituitary-thyroid feedback regulation.

Soft tissue injury events associated with neural integrity monitoring endotracheal tubes: A MAUDE database analysis

OBJECTIVE

Neural integrity monitoring (NIM) endotracheal tubes are widely used to provide intraoperative monitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerve during certain neck surgeries, especially thyroidectomy, in order to reduce the risk of nerve injury and subsequent vocal fold paralysis. The unique design of NIM tubes and the increased technical skill required for correct placement compared to standard endotracheal tubes may increase the risk of upper aerodigestive tract soft tissue injury. This study aims to describe adverse events related to NIM endotracheal tubes.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

SETTING

The US Food and Drug Administration's MAUDE database (2010-2022); (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience).

METHODS

The MAUDE database was queried for reports of adverse events that resulted in patient soft tissue injury involving the use of endotracheal tubes approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

RESULTS

There were 28 reported soft tissue injuries, with all events being related to the NIM EMG family of endotracheal tubes manufactured by Medtronic Xomed, Inc. Overall, 24 were categorized as device-related adverse events, and 4 were unspecified in the event description. The most common soft tissue injuries were edema (n = 7) and perforation (n = 7), each accounting for 25 % of adverse events. The second most common injury type was laceration (n = 4), representing 14 % of all adverse events. Overall, 9 patients (32 %) in our cohort required a surgical intervention to treat their injuries, which consisted of 6 tracheotomies and 3 instances of suture repair.

CONCLUSIONS

The most commonly reported types of soft tissue injury included edema and perforation, followed by laceration. Increased awareness of device-related patient injuries associated with NIM endotracheal tubes can be used to better inform surgeons and anesthesiologists during the process of intubation and surgical decision-making.

Modern internet search analytics and thyroidectomy: What are patients asking?

Objectives

Thyroidectomy is among the most commonly performed head and neck surgeries, however, limited existing information is available on topics of interest and concern to patients.

Study Design

Observational.

Setting

Online.

Methods

A search engine optimization tool was utilized to extract metadata on Google-suggested questions that "People Also Ask" (PAA) pertaining to "thyroidectomy" and "thyroid surgery." These questions were categorized by Rothwell criteria and topics of interest. The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria enabled quality assessment.

Results

A total of 250 PAA questions were analyzed. Future-oriented PAA questions describing what to expect during and after the surgery on topics such as postoperative management, risks or complications of surgery, and technical details were significantly less popular among the "thyroid surgery" group (P < 0.001, P = 0.005, and P < 0.001, respectively). PAA questions about scarring and hypocalcemia were nearly threefold more popular than those related to pain (335 and 319 vs. 113 combined search engine response page count, respectively). The overall JAMA quality score remained low (2.50 ± 1.07), despite an increasing number of patients searching for "thyroidectomy" (r(77) = 0.30, P = 0.007).

Conclusions

Patients searching for the nonspecific term "thyroid surgery" received a curated collection of PAA questions that were significantly less likely to educate them on what to expect during and after surgery, as compared to patients with higher health literacy who search with the term "thyroidectomy." This suggests that the content of PAA questions differs based on the presumed health literacy of the internet user.

Effect of modified endotracheal intubation protocol combined with early oral intake on postoperative recovery quality in thyroid and parathyroid surgery at a tertiary hospital in China: a 2x2 factorial randomised controlled trial protocol

INTRODUCTION

Early oral intake (EOI) is supposed to be safe and beneficial to patients' recovery. However, the optimal timing of resuming oral intake has not been validated in thyroid and parathyroid surgery. On the other hand, a modified electromyography (EMG) endotracheal intubation protocol with real-time EMG monitoring during video laryngoscope/fibrescope-guided intubation was presented in 2022, which was regarded as an effective way to shorten the intubation time. We aimed to use Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) questionnaire to compare the efficacy and safety of different EMG endotracheal intubation protocols combined with different postoperative oral intake strategy in thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This prospective, single-centre, 2×2 factorial, randomised controlled trial will be conducted in the Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), China. We plan to recruit 200 adult patients who will receive thyroid or parathyroid surgery under intraoperative nerve monitoring. Eligible patients will be randomly divided into two groups, which will receive either the modified intubation protocol (M group) or conventional intubation process (C group). After patients enter postanaesthesia care unit and Steward scores ≥4, they will be randomly divided into two groups again, which will receive early resumption of oral intake (E group) or delayed resumption of oral intake (D group). Patients will be followed up during hospitalisation and the QoR-15 questionnaire will be administered to compare the quality of recovery on the day before surgery (T0), the first day after surgery (T1) and the day of discharge (T2). The primary outcome is the QoR-15 scores at T1.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Peking Union Medical College Hospital (IRB K-2501). All participants will give written informed consent before participation. The results from this study will be shared at conferences and disseminated in international journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05624463.

The use and costs of same-day surgery versus overnight admission for total thyroidectomy: A multi-state, all-payer analysis

BACKGROUND

Outpatient thyroidectomy is increasingly favored, given evidence of safety and convenience for selected patients. However, the prevalence of same-day discharge is unclear. We aimed to evaluate temporal trends, hospital characteristics, and costs associated with same-day discharge after total thyroidectomy in an all-payer, multi-state cohort.

METHODS

We included patients aged ≥18 years who underwent a total thyroidectomy (2013-2019) using Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project data. Admission type was defined as same-day, overnight, or inpatient based on length of stay. Same-day patients were propensity-score matched 1:1 with overnight patients. Hospital characteristics and costs were compared in the matched cohort.

RESULTS

Among 86,187 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy, 16,743 (19.4%) cases were same-day, 59,778 (69.4%) were overnight, and 9,666 (11.2%) were inpatient. The proportion of patients who underwent same-day thyroidectomy increased from 14.8% to 20.8% over the study period (P < .001), whereas overnight admissions decreased from 72.9% to 68.8% (P < .001). In total, 9,571 same-day patients were matched to 9,571 overnight patients. Same-day patients had higher odds of treatment at a certified cancer center (odds ratio 1.77; 95% confidence interval 1.65-1.90), Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited teaching hospital (odds ratio 1.72; 95% confidence interval 1.61-1.85), and high-volume hospital (odds ratio 1.53; 95% confidence interval 1.42-1.65). Pairwise cost differences showed median savings of $974 (interquartile range -1,610 to 3,491) for same-day relative to overnight admission (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Although over two-thirds of patients are admitted overnight, same-day total thyroidectomy is increasingly performed. Same-day thyroidectomy may be a lower-cost option for selected patients, particularly in specialty centers with experience in thyroidectomy.

Emergency department use after outpatient thyroidectomy across three states

BACKGROUND

Although outpatient thyroidectomy has become common, few large-scale studies have examined post-thyroidectomy emergency department use, readmission, and encounters not resulting in readmission, known as "treat-and-release" encounters. We evaluated post-outpatient thyroidectomy emergency department use and readmission and characterized associated factors.

METHODS

Using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project databases, we identified adult outpatient (same-day or <24-hour discharge) thyroidectomies performed in Florida, Maryland, and New York from 2016 to 2017. We identified the procedures linked with emergency department treat-and-release encounters and readmissions within 30 days postoperatively and the factors associated with post-thyroidectomy emergency department use and readmission.

RESULTS

Of the 17,046 patients who underwent outpatient thyroidectomy at 374 facilities, 7.5% had emergency department treat-and-release encounters and 2.3% readmissions. The most common reasons for emergency department treat-and-release encounters (9.9%) and readmissions (22.2%) were hypocalcemia-related diagnoses. Greater odds of treat-and-release were associated with identifying as non-Hispanic Black (adjusted odds ratio: 1.5, 95% confidence interval: 1.3-1.8) or Hispanic race/ethnicity (adjusted odds ratio: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1-1.6), having Medicaid insurance (adjusted odds ratio: 2.7, 95% CI: 2.3-3.2), and living in non-metropolitan areas (adjusted odds ratio: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1-2.2). We observed no associations between these factors and the odds of readmission.

CONCLUSION

Emergency department use after outpatient thyroidectomy is common. Racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic disparities are associated with treat-and-release encounters but not readmissions. Standardization of perioperative care pathways, focusing on identifying and addressing specific issues in vulnerable populations, could improve care, reduce disparities, and improve patient experience by avoiding unnecessary emergency department visits after outpatient thyroidectomy.

Malpractice litigation after thyroid surgery: What factors favor surgeons?

BACKGROUND

Litigation impacts physicians financially, reputationally, and professionally. Although thyroid surgery has favorable patient outcomes, litigation persists. We aimed to characterize malpractice claims after thyroidectomy and investigate which factors favor physicians.

METHODS

We queried the Westlaw legal database using the terms "thyroidectomy" and "medical malpractice" to identify malpractice cases brought against surgeons from 1949 to 2022. We collected and analyzed demographic; clinical; surgical; and legal data, including year, cause for initiating litigation, verdict, state where the lawsuit was brought, and the state's tort reform status.

RESULTS

Of the 68 cases included, medical negligence was the most common cause of action, followed by failure to provide adequate informed consent. The most common inciting surgical event was recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (n = 34, 50%). Surgeons prevailed more often overall (n = 53, 77.9%) and in 11 (91.7%) of the 12 cases treated at academic institutions. The 3 endocrine surgery fellowship-trained surgeons all prevailed in their cases. Of the 15 cases in which patients prevailed, 12 (80%) of which were decided by a jury, the median damages awarded were $569,668 (interquartile range $341,146-$2,594,050). In the 53 cases won by surgeons, 26 were jury decisions (49.1%). Surgeons prevailed in 87.5% of cases brought in the 24 states with tort reform and in 72.7% in the 44 states without tort reform.

CONCLUSION

Non-jury cases and operations done at academic institutions appear to favor decisions for the defendant. Although not statistically significant, all endocrine surgery fellowship-trained defendants won. Where tort reforms are in place, surgeons tend to prevail.

Evaluation of Hematoma Formation after Thyroidectomy Surgery and Its Related Factors

Background

In the last decade, the number of patients undergoing thyroidectomy has increased. Compared to other methods, thyroidectomy is a relatively safe method for treating various types of thyroid diseases. However, the blood flow rate in the thyroid gland is high, and hematoma after thyroidectomy is one of its complications. We aimed to evaluate hematoma after thyroidectomy and its related factors.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 2320 patients over 20 years of age who underwent thyroidectomy in Imam Khomeini, Arvand, and Mehr Ahvaz hospitals, Khuzestan Province, southern Iran between 2011 and 2022 were enrolled. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 22.

Results

70.7% of the patients were in the age range of 20-50 years. Twenty-five (1.1%) of patients developed a hematoma after thyroidectomy. Males are more likely to hematoma after surgery (P=0.01). Hematoma was significantly higher in patients with a history of hypertension (P=0.001). Moreover, a significant association was found between male gender, and age over 50 years with the risk of hematoma (P<0.05). The incidence of hematoma had a statistically remarkable correlation with follicular thyroid cancer pathology (P=0.001). Other pathology diagnoses were not significantly related to hematoma formation after thyroidectomy.

Conclusions

Hematoma after thyroidectomy surgery is a rare, but dangerous and life-threatening complication. It is important to identify risk factors for hematoma formation.

Facial nerve monitoring in parotid gland surgery: Design and feasibility assessment of a potential standardized technique

Background

Even though the use of nerve monitoring during parotid gland surgery is not the gold standard to prevent damage to the nerve, it surely offers some advantages over the traditional approach. Different from thyroid surgery, where a series of steps in intraoperative nerve monitoring have been described to confirm not only the integrity but-most importantly-the function of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, in parotid gland surgery, a formal guideline to follow while dissecting the facial nerve has yet to be described.

Methods

A five-year retrospective study was done reviewing the intraoperative records of patients who underwent parotid gland surgery under neural monitoring. The operative findings regarding the neuromonitoring process, particularly in regard to the amplitude of two main branches, were revised. A literature search was done to search for guidelines to follow when a facial nerve loss of signal is encountered.

Results

Fifty-five patients were operated on using the Nim 3 Nerve Monitoring System (Medtronic); 31 were female patients, and 47 patients had benign lesions. Minimum changes were observed in the amplitude records after a comparison was made between the first and the last stimulation. There were only three articles discussing the term loss of signal during parotid gland surgery.

Conclusion

Today, no sufficient attention has been given to the facial nerve monitoring process during parotidectomy. This study proposes a formal guideline to follow during this procedure as well as an instruction to consider when a loss of signal is observed to develop a uniform technique of facial nerve stimulation.

Trends in performance of hospital outpatient procedures and associated 30-day costs among Medicare beneficiaries from 2011 to 2018

BACKGROUND

United States healthcare has increasingly transitioned to outpatient care delivery. The degree to which Academic Medical Centers (AMCs) have been able to shift surgical procedures from inpatient to outpatient settings despite higher patient complexity is unknown.

METHODS

This observational study used a 20% sample of fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries age 65 and older undergoing eight elective procedures from 2011 to 2018 to model trends in procedure site (hospital outpatient vs. inpatient) and 30-day standardized Medicare costs, overall and by hospital teaching status.

RESULTS

Of the 1,222,845 procedures, 15.9% occurred at AMCs. There was a 2.42% per-year adjusted increase (95% CI 2.39%-2.45%; p < .001) in proportion of outpatient hospital procedures, from 68.9% in 2011 to 85.4% in 2018. Adjusted 30-day standardized costs declined from $18,122 to $14,353, (-$560/year, 95% CI -$573 to -$547; p < .001). Patients at AMCs had more chronic conditions and higher predicted annual mortality. AMCs had a lower proportion of outpatient procedures in all years compared to non-AMCs, a difference that was statistically significant but small in magnitude. AMCs had higher costs compared to non-AMCs and a lesser decline over time (p < .001 for the interaction). AMCs and non-AMCs saw a similar decline in 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

There has been a substantial shift toward outpatient procedures among Medicare beneficiaries with a decrease in total 30-day Medicare spending as well as 30-day mortality. Despite a higher complexity population, AMCs shifted procedures to the outpatient hospital setting at a similar rate as non-AMCs.

IMPLICATIONS

The trend toward outpatient procedural care and lower spending has been observed broadly across AMCs and non-AMCs, suggesting that Medicare beneficiaries have benefited from more efficient delivery of procedural care across academic and community hospitals.

Opioid-Sparing Protocol for Endocrine Surgery (OSPREY): A Prospective Study

BACKGROUND

Thyroid and parathyroid operations are among the most commonly performed surgeries in the world; however, there remains a paucity of prospective clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of opioid-sparing protocols after surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective nonrandomized study was performed between March and October 2021. Participants self-selected their cohort of either an opioid-sparing protocol of acetaminophen/ibuprofen or a treatment-as-usual protocol with opioids. Primary endpoints were Overall Benefit of Analgesia Scores (OBAS) and opioid use as reported in daily medication logs. Data were recorded for 7 days. Multivariable regression, pooled variance t -tests, Mann-Whitney test, and chi-square tests were used to evaluate the results.

RESULTS

A total of 87 participants were recruited; 48 participants opted for the opioid-sparing arm, and 39 participants opted for the treatment-as-usual arm. Patients in the opioid-sparing arm used significantly fewer opioids (morphine equivalents 0.77 ± 1.71 vs 3.34 ± 5.87, p = 0.042) but had no significant difference in OBAS (p = 0.37). Multivariable regression analysis demonstrated no significant difference in mean OBAS between treatment arms when controlling for age, sex, and type of surgery (p = 0.88). There were no major adverse events in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

An opioid-sparing treatment algorithm based on the use of acetaminophen/ibuprofen may offer a safe and effective treatment algorithm compared to a primary opioid-focused treatment pathway. Randomized adequately powered studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Incidental parathyroidectomy during total thyroidectomy and functional parathyroid preservation: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The published rate of incidental parathyroidectomy (IP) during thyroid surgery varies between 5.8% and 29%. The risk factors and clinical significance of postoperative transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism are still debated. The aims of this study were to assess the clinical relevance of avoidable IP for transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism, and to describe the risk factors for IP.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 1,537 patients who had a one-step total thyroidectomy in a high-volume endocrine surgery center between 2018 and 2019. Pathology reports were reviewed for incidentally removed parathyroid glands. Intrathyroidal parathyroid glands were excluded from the study. Demographic characteristics, potential risk factors, and postoperative calcium and PTH levels were compared between IP and control groups.

RESULTS

Avoidable IP occurred in 234 (15.2%) patients. Patients with IP had a higher risk of transient hypocalcemia (17.9% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.006; odds ratio [OR] 1.68, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]1.16-2.45) and permanent hypoparathyroidism (4.7% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.002; OR 3.01, 95% CI 1.29-6.63) than patients without IP. Multivariate analysis showed that central lymph node dissection (CLND) and incidental removal of thymus tissue were independent risk factors for IP (OR 4.83, 95% CI 2.71-8.86, p < 0.001 and OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.02-2.82, p = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with IP were more likely to develop transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism, indicating the clinical significance of avoidable IP for patients and the need for raising awareness among surgeons. Patients undergoing CLND are at a higher risk for IP, and should be adequately informed and treated. Any removal of thymus tissue should be avoided during CLND.

History of Thyroid Surgery in the Last Century

Before the 20th century, thyroid surgery was regarded as "horrid butchery" such that no honest and sensible surgeon would ever engage in it. Yet, by the mid-20th century, thyroidectomy had become a respected, life-saving, safe, and increasingly practiced operation. From Kocher to Wells and onward into the 21st century, the evolution of thyroid surgery has continued, enhanced by the integration of endocrinology, genetics, immunology, physiology, technology, training, and multidisciplinary care. The ability to personalize and optimize the care of thyroid disorders has been progressively achieved through shared insights and discoveries, highlights of which are described herein.

Preoperative risk factors and postoperative complications associated with mortality after outpatient surgery in a broad surgical population: an analysis of 2.8 million ACS-NSQIP patients

BACKGROUND

Thirty-day mortality after outpatient surgery is unexpected and undesired. We investigated preoperative risk factors, operative variables, and postoperative complications associated with 30-day death after outpatient surgery.

METHODS

Using the 2005 to 2018 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we evaluated 30-day mortality rate trends over time after outpatient operations. We analyzed associations between 37 preoperative variables, operation time, hospital length of stay, and 9 postoperative complications with mortality rate using χ2 analyses for categorical data and tests for continuous data. We used forward selection logistic regression models to determine the best predictors of mortality preoperatively and postoperatively. We also separately analyzed mortality by age group.

RESULTS

A total of 2,822,789 patients were included. The 30-day mortality rate did not change significantly over time (P = .34, Cochran-Armitage trend test), remaining steady at around 0.06%. The most significant preoperative predictors of mortality included the patient having disseminated cancer, decreased functional health status, increased American Society of Anesthesiology Physical Status classification, increased age, and ascites, accounting for 95.8% (0.837/0.874) of the full model c-index. The most significant postoperative complications associated with increased risk of mortality included having cardiac (26.95% yes vs 0.04% no), pulmonary (10.25% vs 0.04%), stroke (9.22% vs 0.06%), and renal (9.33% vs 0.06%) complications. Postoperative complications conferred a greater risk for mortality than preoperative variables. Mortality risk increased incrementally with age, particularly past age 80.

CONCLUSION

The operative mortality rate after outpatient surgery has not changed over time. Patients over 80 years with disseminated cancer, decreased functional health status, or increased ASA class should generally be considered for inpatient surgery. However, there might be some circumstances where outpatient surgery could be considered.

The Economic Cost of Thyroid Cancer in France and the Corresponding Share Associated With Treatment of Overdiagnosed Cases

OBJECTIVES

Thyroid cancer incidence in France has increased rapidly in recent decades. Most of this increase has been attributed to overdiagnosis, the major consequence of which is overtreatment. We aimed to estimate the cost of thyroid cancer management in France and the corresponding cost proportion attributable to the treatment of overdiagnosed cases.

METHODS

Multiple data sources were integrated: the mean cost per patient with thyroid cancer was estimated by using the Echantillon Généraliste des Bénéficiaires data set; thyroid cancer cases attributable to overdiagnosis were estimated for 21 departments using data from the French network of cancer registries and extrapolated to the whole country; medical records from 6 departments were used to refine the diagnosis and care pathway.

RESULTS

Between 2011 and 2015, 33 911 women and 10 846 men in France were estimated to be diagnosed of thyroid cancer, with mean cost per capita of €6248. Among those treated, 8114 to 14 925 women and 1465 to 3626 men were due to overdiagnosis. The total cost of thyroid cancer patient management was €203.5 million (€154.3 million for women and €49.3 million for men), of which between €59.9 million (or 29.4% of the total cost, lower bound) and €115.9 million (or 56.9% of the total cost, upper bound) attributable to treatment of overdiagnosed cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of thyroid cancer represents not only a relevant clinical and public health problem in France but also a potentially important economic burden. Overdiagnosis and corresponding associated treatments play an important role on the total costs of thyroid cancer management.

Characterizing the most Popular Tinnitus Inquiries: Is Tinnitus Incidence on the Rise Since COVID-19?

OBJECTIVE

Approximately 50 million US adults experience chronic tinnitus, yet search behaviors and topics of concern to these patients have not been investigated on a national level.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational.

SETTING

Online database and tertiary otology clinic.

PATIENTS

Nationwide and institutional samples.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

A search engine optimization tool was utilized to extract metadata on "People Also Ask" (PAA) questions pertaining to tinnitus. Website quality was assessed using JAMA benchmark criteria. Search volume trends were investigated along with institutional-level data on tinnitus incidence.

RESULTS

Of the 500 PAA questions assessed, the majority (54.0%) contained value-type content. The most popular question categories pertained to tinnitus treatment (29.3%), alternative treatment approaches (21.5%), technical details (16.9%), and timeline of symptoms (13.4%). Patients were most interested in treatment with wearable masking devices and most commonly searched for tinnitus as being attributable to a neurologic etiology. Online searches pertaining to unilateral tinnitus symptoms have increased >3-fold since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Likewise, review of patient encounters at our tertiary otology clinic revealed a nearly 2-fold increase in tinnitus consultations since 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

Topics of interest and concern identified herein may inform the development of patient education materials and help guide clinical practice. Online search data suggest an increase in tinnitus searches since the onset of COVID-19, which did correlate clinically with an increase in tinnitus consultations at our institution.

A Comprehensive Management of Neck Hematoma in Post-Thyroidectomy Patient for Papillary Thyroid Cancer: A Case Report

A post-thyroidectomy hematoma is a rare, potentially fatal surgical complication that may present as hoarseness, dysphagia, and difficulty in breathing, which could progress to complete airway obstruction and, ultimately, death. The treatment for a neck hematoma is emergent surgical drainage. While certain precautions can be taken to prevent this complication, such as the cessation of any anticoagulants prior to surgery, it is still a feared complication of thyroidectomy with an increasing prevalence. In this paper, we discuss a case of a 62-year-old female with papillary thyroid cancer who presents with a postoperative complication of a neck hematoma requiring emergent surgery and conduct a literature review on managing post-thyroidectomy hematomas.

Variant anatomy of non-recurrent laryngeal nerve: when and how should it be taught in surgical residency?

INTRODUCTION

While the performance of a thyroidectomy is generally associated with a low risk of injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), the presence of a non-recurrent nerve (NRLN) increases the risk of this complication. Generally, the intraoperative detection via visual appreciation of variant anatomy of the RLN has been regarded as poor, possibly due to a lack of knowledge of both the normal and aberrant anatomy of the RLN.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Articles for the review were searched through PubMed using the search terms and their combinations: "non-recurrent laryngeal nerve," "thyroidectomy," "injury," "palsy," "variant anatomy," and "residency," from January 1, 2000, to December 2022. Papers considered for the review were the articles published in English, with additional classic and articles of surgical importance retrieved from the reference list of papers. Only papers relevant to the scope of the review were considered for this review.

FINDINGS

The NRLN has been found to be associated with concurrent vascular abnormalities, such as the presence of an aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) or an arteria lusoria originating from the aortic arch. However, it seems that both the normal as well as aberrant anatomy of the RLN is currently not emphasized enough during postgraduate surgical training. With the increased use of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM), detection of NRLN has become possible through appropriate neural mapping during thyroid surgery, besides other pointers such as visualization during surgery, computerised tomography, and duplex ultrasound scans to visualize the variant vascular anatomy. There is also a possible role for cadaveric courses, either during medical school or in a post-graduate setting-adapted to the student's level to teach the variant anatomy. With the development of newer techniques such as artificial intelligence, there are potential new options for teaching and training anatomy in the near future.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Adequate knowledge of the normal and aberrant anatomy of the RLN remains essential for the best outcomes in thyroid surgery, even in the era of the IONM. Moving forward, the knowledge of (aberrant) anatomy should be made an integral part of the core competencies of both medical students and surgical trainees. It is imperative that leaders of the different field work closely together to combine their knowledge towards providing their trainees with the best possible training options.

The safety, benefits and future development of overnight and outpatient thyroidectomy

With the development of medical care, the safety of thyroidectomy is improving year by year. Due to economic benefits and other advantages of the overnight and outpatient thyroidectomy, more and more patients and medical institutions have favored overnight and outpatient thyroidectomy, and its proportion in thyroidectomy has increased year by year. However, overnight and outpatient thyroidectomy still faces many challenges and remains to be improved. In this review, we focused on the recent progress and the relevant clinical features of overnight and outpatient thyroidectomy, including its safety, economic benefits, etc., which may bring valuable clues and information for further improvements of patient benefits and promotions of overnight or outpatient thyroidectomy in the future.

Longitudinal experience of patients with post-thyroidectomy vocal cord paralysis

BACKGROUND

Prior studies of post-thyroidectomy vocal cord paralysis (VCP) present static and limited evaluations. We comprehensively assessed the experience of patients with VCP post-thyroidectomy over 1 year.

METHODS

Voice Handicap Index (VHI), Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10), 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12), and qualitative interviews were assessed preoperatively, and 2-weeks, 6-weeks, 6-months, and 1-year postoperatively.

OUTCOMES

7 of 44 patients (15.9%) had postoperative VCP. Compared to those without complication, mean VHI scores for VCP patients increased significantly from baseline at 2-weeks (27.9 point increase vs 1.6, p < 0.01) and 6-weeks (26.3 vs. -0.3, p < 0.01) postoperative. There were no significant differences between groups in SF-12 or EAT-10 scores at any point. Qualitative interviews showed that both groups noted bothersome voice symptoms at 2-weeks; however, by 6-weeks, only VCP patients noted voice symptoms negatively affecting their life.

CONCLUSION

While both patients with and without VCP reported subjective voice symptoms immediately postoperatively, those with VCP had worse quantitative measures. Understanding the longitudinal experience of VCP can help providers tailor counseling for these patients.

Consequences of early thyroid ultrasound on subsequent tests, morbidity and costs: an explorative analysis of routine health data from German ambulatory care

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to evaluate whether the use of thyroid ultrasound (US) early in the work-up of suspected thyroid disorders triggers cascade effects of medical procedures and to analyse effects on morbidity, healthcare usage and costs.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of claims data from ambulatory care (2012-2017).

SETTING

Primary care in Bavaria, Germany, 13 million inhabitants.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients having received a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test were allocated to (1) observation group: TSH test followed by an early US within 28 days or (2) control group: TSH test, but no early US. Propensity score matching was used adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, morbidity and symptom diagnosis (N=41 065 per group after matching).

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Using cluster analysis, groups were identified regarding frequency of follow-up TSH tests and/or US and compared.

RESULTS

Four subgroups were identified: cluster 1: 22.8% of patients, mean (M)=1.6 TSH tests; cluster 2: 16.6% of patients, M=4.7 TSH tests; cluster 3: 54.4% of patients, M=3.3 TSH tests, 1.8 US; cluster 4: 6.2% of patients, M=10.9 TSH tests, 3.9 US. Overall, reasons that explain the tests could rarely be found. An early US was mostly found in clusters 3 and 4 (83.2% and 76.1%, respectively, were part of the observation group). In cluster 4 there were more women, thyroid-specific morbidity and costs were higher and the early US was more likely to be performed by specialists in nuclear medicine or radiologists.

CONCLUSION

Presumably unnecessary tests in the field of suspected thyroid diseases seem to be frequent, contributing to cascades effects. Neither German nor international guidelines provide clear recommendations for or against US screening. Therefore, guidelines on when to apply US and when not are urgently needed.

Performance of General Surgical Procedures in Outpatient Settings Before and After Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic

IMPORTANCE

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) has advocated for the expansion of outpatient surgery to conserve limited hospital resources and bed capacity, while maintaining surgical throughput, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of the COVID-19 pandemic with outpatient scheduled general surgery procedures.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This multicenter, retrospective cohort study analyzed data from hospitals participating in the ACS National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2019 (before COVID-19), and from January 1 to December 31, 2020 (during COVID-19). Adult patients (≥18 years of age) who underwent any 1 of the 16 most frequently performed scheduled general surgery operations in the ACS-NSQIP database were included.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was the percentage of outpatient cases (length of stay, 0 days) for each procedure. To determine the rate of change over time, multiple multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the independent association of year with the odds of outpatient surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 988 436 patients were identified (mean [SD] age, 54.5 [16.1] years; 574 683 women [58.1%]), of whom 823 746 underwent scheduled surgery before COVID-19 and 164 690 had surgery during COVID-19. On multivariable analysis, the odds of outpatient surgery during COVID-19 (vs 2019) were higher in patients who underwent mastectomy for cancer (odds ratio [OR], 2.49 [95% CI, 2.33-2.67]), minimally invasive adrenalectomy (OR, 1.93 [95% CI, 1.34-2.77]), thyroid lobectomy (OR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.32-1.54]), breast lumpectomy (OR, 1.34 [95% CI, 1.23-1.46]), minimally invasive ventral hernia repair (OR, 1.21 [95% CI, 1.15-1.27]), minimally invasive sleeve gastrectomy (OR, 2.56 [95% CI, 1.89-3.48]), parathyroidectomy (OR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.14-1.34]), and total thyroidectomy (OR, 1.53 [95% CI, 1.42-1.65]). These odds were all greater than those observed for 2019 vs 2018, 2018 vs 2017, and 2017 vs 2016, suggesting that an accelerated increase in outpatient surgery rates in 2020 occurred as a consequence of COVID-19, rather than a continuation of secular trends. Despite these findings, only 4 procedures had a clinically meaningful (≥10%) overall increase in outpatient surgery rates during the study period: mastectomy for cancer (+19.4%), thyroid lobectomy (+14.7%), minimally invasive ventral hernia repair (+10.6%), and parathyroidectomy (+10.0%).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort study, the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an accelerated transition to outpatient surgery for many scheduled general surgical operations; however, the magnitude of percentage increase was small for all but 4 procedure types. Further studies should explore potential barriers to the uptake of this approach, particularly for procedures that have been shown to be safe when performed in an outpatient setting.

Outpatient endocrine surgery practice patterns are highly variable among US endocrine surgery fellowship programs

BACKGROUND

Current studies and guidelines have reported that outpatient endocrine surgery is safe. However, none recommend specific postoperative protocols.

METHODS

An internet-based survey, developed using expert input, was distributed to current (2021-2022) endocrine surgery fellows in American Association of Endocrine Surgeons-accredited programs (n = 23). Programs with ≤2% same-day discharge rate were compared with those with ≥2% same-day discharge rate.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 91% (21/23), representing 20 United States institutions performing >15,000 cervical endocrine operations annually. The same-day discharge rate after total thyroidectomy was not normally distributed across institutions (P < .0001) but appeared bimodal, highlighting dogmatic differences in the pursuit of same-day discharge. Nine programs had ≤2% same-day discharge rate, whereas seven had ≥90% same-day discharge rate. Fourteen (70%) reported minimum observation periods before discharge, without consistency across procedures or institutions. Total thyroidectomy patients were observed longer. Fourteen (70%) reported no geographic restrictions for same-day discharge. In programs with >2% same-day discharge (n = 11), clinical and operative factors inconsistently influenced same-day discharge after thyroidectomy. Living alone precluded same-day discharge in 3 programs. Lateral neck dissection and chronic anticoagulation each greatly reduced same-day discharge in one program and precluded same-day discharge in another. Central neck dissection, Graves' disease, substernal goiter, continuous positive airway pressure use, difficult/bloody operation, and signal on nerve stimulation had no or minimal effect on same-day discharge. Postoperative medication recommendations varied among programs. Although anticoagulation/antiplatelet agents were similarly held preoperatively across programs, resumption varied. Narcotics were routinely prescribed in 35%.

CONCLUSION

Same-day discharge is not uniform across endocrine surgery training programs and is likely primarily driven by surgeon preference. Factors influencing same-day discharge vary significantly among programs.

Italian Guidelines for the Management of Non-Functioning Benign and Locally Symptomatic Thyroid Nodules

AIM

This guideline (GL) is aimed at providing a reference for the management of non-functioning, benign thyroid nodules causing local symptoms in adults outside of pregnancy.

METHODS

This GL has been developed following the methods described in the Manual of the National Guideline System. For each question, the panel appointed by Associazione Medici Endocrinology (AME) identified potentially relevant outcomes, which were then rated for their impact on therapeutic choices. Only outcomes classified as "critical" and "important" were considered in the systematic review of evidence and only those classified as "critical" were considered in the formulation of recommendations.

RESULTS

The present GL contains recommendations about the respective roles of surgery and minimally invasive treatments for the management of benign symptomatic thyroid nodules. We suggest hemithyroidectomy plus isthmectomy as the first-choice surgical treatment, provided that clinically significant disease is not present in the contralateral thyroid lobe. Total thyroidectomy should be considered for patients with clinically significant disease in the contralateral thyroid lobe. We suggest considering thermo-ablation as an alternative option to surgery for patients with a symptomatic, solid, benign, single, or dominant thyroid nodule. These recommendations apply to outpatients, either in primary care or when referred to specialists.

CONCLUSION

The present GL is directed to endocrinologists, surgeons, and interventional radiologists working in hospitals, in territorial services, or private practice, general practitioners, and patients. The available data suggest that the implementation of this GL recommendations will result in the progressive reduction of surgical procedures for benign thyroid nodular disease, with a decreased number of admissions to surgical departments for non-malignant conditions and more rapid access to patients with thyroid cancer. Importantly, a reduction of indirect costs due to long-term replacement therapy and the management of surgical complications may also be speculated.

Acupuncture Analgesia in Patients with Postoperative Neck Pain: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background. There is a yearly increase in pain after neck surgery, which is accompanied by high consumption of opioids. However, the opioid addiction epidemic is one of the most serious public health problems worldwide. Therefore, it is important to find suitable alternatives for opioids. Acupuncture therapy has been found effective for some types of pain control. This protocol aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture therapy in the treatment of pain after neck surgery. Methods and Analysis. We will search eight electronic databases from their inception to April 2022. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using manual acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, or electroacupuncture as major therapy will be included, regardless of whether the study was published in Chinese or English. The selection of studies and data extraction will be independently completed by at least two experienced reviewers with a master's degree. The methodological quality of the included studies will be assessed by the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. For the meta-analysis, Review Manager Statistical (RevMan V.5.3) software will be used. The results will be presented as the risk ratio (RR) for the binary data and the mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) for the continuous data. Ethics and Dissemination. This protocol for a systematic review will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal for publication and presented at a relevant conference, and there is no need to obtain formal ethical approval. Trial Registration Number. PROSPERO registration number CRD42021281722.

Large, Slowly Growing, Benign Thyroid Nodules Frequently Coexist With Synchronous Thyroid Cancers

CONTEXT

Thyroid nodules' size should not be the sole criterion for thyroidectomy; however, many patients undergo surgery for large or slowly growing nodules.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated risk for clinically significant thyroid cancer in patients with large or slowly growing nodules.

METHODS

We reviewed data from 2 prospectively collected databases of patients undergoing thyroidectomies in tertiary referral centers in the USA and Greece over 14 consecutive years. We collected data on the preoperative surgical indication, FNA cytology, and surgical pathology. We included subjects operated solely for large or growing thyroid nodules, without any known or presumed thyroid cancer or high risk for malignancy, family history of thyroid cancer, or prior radiation exposure.

RESULTS

We reviewed 5523 consecutive cases (USA: 2711; Greece: 2812). After excluding 3059 subjects, we included 2464 subjects in the present analysis. Overall, 533 thyroid cancers were identified (21.3%): 372 (69.8%) microcarcinomas (<1 cm) and 161 (30.2%) macrocarcinomas (≥1 cm). The histology was consistent with papillary cancer (n = 503), follicular cancer (n = 12), Hürthle cell cancer (n = 9), medullary cancer (n = 5), and mixed histology cancers n = 4. Only 47 (1.9%) of our subjects had any form of thyroid cancer in the nodule that originally led to surgery. The cancers were multifocal in 165 subjects; had extrathyroidal extension in 61, capsular invasion in 80, lymph node involvement in 35, and bone metastasis in 2 subjects.

CONCLUSION

The risk of synchronous, clinically important thyroid cancers is small, but not null in patients with large or slow growing thyroid nodules. Therefore, more precise preoperative evaluation is needed to separate the patients who would clearly benefit from thyroid surgery from the vast majority of those who do not need to be operated.

Trends for In- and Outpatient Thyroid Cancer Surgery in Older Adults in New York State, 2007-2017

BACKGROUND

In view of the 2013 American Thyroid Association consensus statement on outpatient thyroidectomy, the present study assessed the trends and factors associated with thyroid cancer surgery setting in older adults, using the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

There were 14,495 patients with surgically treated thyroid cancer in New York State between 2007 and 2017. Trends were plotted over time and stratified by surgery type. Significance of the trend was assessed using the Mann-Kendall test. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess independent associations with surgical setting.

RESULTS

The overall outpatient surgery rate significantly increased over time (correlation coefficient 0.82; P < 0.001), for both total thyroidectomy (P < 0.001) and lobectomy (P < 0.001). Factors associated with increased odds of inpatient surgery were medium- and high-volume hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [OR_adj] 2.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.93-2.32; OR_adj 1.69, 95% CI 1.55-1.85, respectively) versus low volume, undergoing total thyroidectomy (OR_adj 1.75, 95% CI 1.61-1.90), as well as having Medicare insurance (OR_adj 1.13, 95% CI 1.02-1.24) versus private insurance.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study shows that outpatient thyroidectomy is increasingly favored over inpatient thyroidectomy over time in an older patient population. A clear changepoint following 2011 preceded the publication of the American Thyroid Association statement on outpatient thyroidectomy in 2013 and was likely associated with multiple publications reporting safety of outpatient thyroid surgery and clear economic benefits.

Analgesic effect of paracetamol monotherapy vs. the combination of paracetamol/parecoxib vs. the combination of pethidine/paracetamol in patients undergoing thyroidectomy

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to investigate the analgesic effect of 3 different regimens of combination analgesics administered to patients undergoing thyroidectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 152 patients undergoing total or subtotal thyroidectomy were enrolled. Patients allocated to group A received a combination of intravenous (IV) paracetamol and intramuscular (IM) pethidine, patients in group B received a combination of IV paracetamol and IV parecoxib, while patients in group C received IV paracetamol monotherapy.

RESULTS

The analgesic regimens of groups A and B were found to be of equivalent efficacy (p-value = 1.000). In contrast, patients in group C (paracetamol monotherapy) had higher numerical rating scale scores, compared to both patients in groups A (p-value < 0.001) and B (p-value < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The combinations of IV paracetamol with either IM pethidine or IV parecoxib are superior to IV paracetamol monotherapy in achieving pain control in patients undergoing thyroid surgery.

Alternative sources of cautery may improve post-operative hematoma rates but increase operative time in thyroid surgery

A retrospective risk-adjusted analysis was completed using data from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) to (1) compare the risks of post-operative hematoma for thyroid surgery using conventional cautery compared alternative energy devices (defined as LigaSure and Harmonic Scalpel), and (2) compare operative times for the same. The primary outcome variable was post-operative hematoma occurrence. The secondary outcome variable was operative time. The exposure variable was use of conventional or alternative sources of cautery. All adult patients who underwent a total thyroidectomy, subtotal thyroidectomy or completion thyroidectomy between 2016 and 2018 were included. Multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses were performed to control for potentially confounding variables. A total of 13,330 cases were analyzed; 4342 used conventional cautery, and 8988 used alternative sources. There was a statistically significant decrease in post-operative hematoma risk using alternative sources of cautery compared to conventional cautery (OR 0.75; 95% CI 0.58-0.98) (p = 0.04). Use of alternative sources of cautery added 4.95 min onto operative time (95% CI 2.45-7.45) which was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). After controlling for confounding variables, there was a statistically significant lower rate of post-operative hematoma in thyroidectomies performed using alternative sources of cautery compared to those performed with traditional hemostatic methods. Alternative sources of cautery increased operative time by 4.95 min.

Trastornos posoperatorios del metabolismo del calcio postiroidectomía

Introducción: revisión narrativa que revela como la tiroidectomía ha aumentado en los últimos años y con ella sus complicaciones: la hipocalcemia y el hipoparatiroidismo. Métodos: los motores de búsqueda utilizados fueron PubMed, Clinical Key, Embase, Cochrane y Lilacs, se incluyeron referencias en español e inglés, publicadas entre 2016 y 2020. Los artículos seleccionados se revisaron utilizando CONSORT, STROBE o PRISMA, según el caso. Resultados: fueron seleccionados 35 artículos que tenían relación directa con el tema, entre ellos: metanálisis, revisiones sistemáticas, estudios prospectivos y observacionales, revisiones narrativas y consensos de expertos, procedentes de los cinco continentes. La hipocalcemia y el hipotiroidismo en sus dos formas se relacionan con la afectación de la vascularización de las glándulas paratiroides o su exérecis accidental, existiendo factores predisponentes propios del paciente, derivados de la técnica quirúrgica o la característica patológica de la lesión en el tiroides. Como estrategias de prevención disponemos de herramientas ópticas para definir en el perioperatorio la disposición de las paratiroides; además existe la posibilidad de autotrasplantarlas al identificarlas en la pieza anatómica. El mejor marcador del estado metabólico del calcio es la PTHi. Conclusiones: la preservación de las paratiroides y de su irrigación es la mejor estrategia para prevenir los trastornos posoperatorios del calcio.

Nerve monitoring decreases recurrent laryngeal nerve injury risk for neoplasm-related thyroidectomy

OBJECTIVE

Conflicting reports exist regarding the benefit of intraoperative neuromonitoring (INM) for patients undergoing thyroidectomy. We hypothesized that in a national sample, the risk of mild and severe RLNi is decreased for patients undergoing neoplasm-related disease (NRD) thyroidectomy with INM compared to patients without INM.

METHODS

The database was queried for patients that underwent total thyroidectomy for NRD with and without INM. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine the associated odds of RLNi.

RESULTS

From 6942 patients, 4269 (61.5%) had INM during thyroidectomy. Patients with INM had a similar rate of overall RLNi compared to patients without INM (5.7% vs. 6.6%, p = 0.118). After adjusting for covariates, INM was associated with decreased odds of severe-RLNi (OR 0.23, p = 0.036) but not mild-RLNi (p = 0.16).

CONCLUSION

INM is associated with a nearly 80% decreased associated odds of severe RLNi during thyroidectomy for NRD. Future prospective confirmation is needed, and if confirmed, patients undergoing thyroidectomy for NRD should have INM to reduce the risk of RLNi and its associated morbidity.

Appropriate selection of candidates for outpatient thyroidectomy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Although traditionally an inpatient procedure, outpatient thyroidectomy has gained traction as a viable and well tolerated alternative for selected patients, with an added benefit of cost savings.

RECENT FINDINGS

Research on outpatient thyroidectomy has focused on establishing its noninferiority in outcomes compared to the standard inpatient or overnight observation. Numerous studies have found comparable low rates of postoperative complications and no increase in readmission. Selection criteria have been well established by professional societies and research studies support the selection bias benefitting appropriately selected patients. The primary benefit of outpatient thyroidectomy reported is a decrease in cost, though additional theoretical benefits such as decreased exposure to nosocomial infections.

SUMMARY

Outpatient thyroidectomy is a well tolerated approach in appropriately selected candidates, with cost reduction benefits. Adherence to societal guidelines for patient selection is paramount.

Artificial intelligence-augmented, label-free molecular imaging method for tissue identification, cancer diagnosis, and cancer margin detection

Label-free high-resolution molecular and cellular imaging strategies for intraoperative use are much needed, but not yet available. To fill this void, we developed an artificial intelligence-augmented molecular vibrational imaging method that integrates label-free and subcellular-resolution coherent anti-stokes Raman scattering (CARS) imaging with real-time quantitative image analysis via deep learning (artificial intelligence-augmented CARS or iCARS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the capability of the iCARS system to identify and differentiate the parathyroid gland and recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) from surrounding tissues and detect cancer margins. This goal was successfully met.

A Population-Based Analysis of Outpatient Thyroidectomy: Safe and Under-Utilized

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Performance of thyroidectomy on an outpatient basis has gained popularity although many jurisdictions have not shifted their practice despite a strong safety profile. We sought to assess the uptake and safety of outpatient thyroidectomy in Ontario.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

This was a population-based retrospecive cohort of adult patients undergoing hemithyroidectomy or total thyroidectomy between 1993 and 2017 in Ontario, Canada. Outpatient surgery was defined as discharge home on the same day of surgery. Outcomes of interest include 30-day all cause death, hematoma, emergency department use, and readmission. To adjust for confounding, propensity scores were calculated. Logistic regression models with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) were then used to estimate the exposure-outcome relationship.

RESULTS

The final cohort consisted of 81,199 patients: 8,442 underwent same day surgery and 72,757 were admitted. The proportion of patients undergoing outpatient thyroidectomy increased overtime (2.3% in 1993-1994 to 17.8% in 2016-2017). Factors associated with higher odds of outpatient thyroidectomy included: younger age, less material deprivation, less comorbidities, and higher surgeon volume. The absolute number of deaths (≤5) and hematomas (64, 0.8%) in the outpatient cohort was low. After IPTW adjustment, patients with outpatient management had lower odds of neck hematoma (OR 0.73[95CI% 0.58-0.93)], but higher odds of emergency department use (OR 1.67[95%CI 1.56-1.79]).

CONCLUSIONS

Outpatient thyroidectomy is not associated with an increased mortality risk. Less than one in five patients undergo outpatient thyroidectomy in Ontario, despite a well-established safety profile.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Safety and cost-effectiveness of outpatient thyroidectomy: A retrospective observational study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the safety and cost-effectiveness of outpatient thyroidectomy and provide a systematic postoperative protocol for safe discharge.

METHODS

In this retrospective review, the medical records of all patients who underwent total, hemi, or completion thyroidectomy from July 2017 to April 2019 at 2 tertiary care hospitals were reviewed. Multivariable analysis was performed on the potential predictors of postoperative complications. Healthcare costs were calculated by the type of admission based on the average costs at the 2 centers.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-two patients were enrolled in this study. The majority of cases were in the outpatient group (n=76, 62.3%). Total thyroidectomy was the most prevalent type of surgery (n=90, 73.7%). There were a total of 20 complications in 18 patients (inpatient=9 versus [vs.] outpatient=9). No cases of cervical hematoma or bilateral vocal cord paralysis were encountered. No significant difference was found between the type of admission (outpatient vs. inpatient) and postsurgical complications (p=0.24). The multivariable regression model retained significance for male gender and American Society of Anesthesiologists Classification III as potential predictors of postoperative complications. Healthcare costs would be reduced by at least 15.5% with the implementation of outpatient surgery.

CONCLUSION

Outpatient thyroidectomy is as safe as inpatient thyroidectomy given the proper selection of cases. We project cost containment of over $711 thousand per 1,000 cases for outpatient thyroid surgeries.

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy for benign thyroid nodules: a 3-year retrospective multicenter follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), as a non-surgical treatment option for benign symptomatic thyroid nodules, has mainly been based on single-center studies and short-term follow-up. Therefore, we assessed the safety, and long-term efficacy of HIFU in benign thyroid nodules among four centers with expertise in thyroid mini-invasive procedures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective three year follow-up study in four European centers, treating solid benign thyroid nodules causing pressure symptoms and/or cosmetic concerns. Nodule volume reduction was assessed at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months post-treatment. Technical efficacy, defined as a volume reduction rate (VVR) >50% was evaluated at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months. Predictive factors of efficacy were assessed using logistic models. Complications and side effects were classified according to the Interventional Radiology Guidelines and changes in local symptoms were scored on a visual-analog scale.

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients (mean age 51.1 ± 14.0 years; 86.2% women) with a single thyroid nodule and a mean baseline nodule volume of 9.8 ± 10.3 mL were treated with a mean energy of 7.1 ± 3.1 kJ (range: 2.0 to 15.5 kJ). Median nodule volume reduction was 31.5% (IQR: -38.6% to -23.1%) at 12 months and 31.9% (IQR: -36.4% to -16.1%) at 36 months. Technical efficacy was obtained in 17.2% of cases at 6 months, 17.8% at 12 months, 3.4% at 24 months, and 7.4% at 36 months. The number of treated pixels and the mean energy delivered were positively correlated to VRR at 1, 6 and 12 months. The risk of treatment failure decreased by 4.3% for each additional unit of energy delivered. The procedure duration was inversely correlated with treatment failure (OR 1.043, 95% CI: 1.011-1.083; p = 0.014). Improvement of cervical pressure symptoms or cosmetic complaints were observed in less than 15% of the cases at 12, 24 and 36 months. Horner's syndrome occurred in one case (1.5%) and minor complications, not requiring treatment, in three (4.6%) patients. No change in thyroid function was registered.

CONCLUSIONS

HIFU carried a low risk of complications. A single treatment resulted in a 30-35% thyroid nodule volume decrease within one year, reduction that remained stable for 2 years. Outcomes varied significantly between centers with different HIFU expertise. Focus on improved HIFU technology, adequate training, and appropriate selection of patients is needed to achieve efficacy comparable to other thermal ablation procedures.

Ambulatory Surgery vs Overnight Observation for Total Thyroidectomy: Cost Analysis and Outcomes

Objective

To compare financial impact between patients undergoing ambulatory (same-day discharge) vs overnight admission after total thyroidectomy while showing associated surgical outcomes.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center from October 2011 and July 2017.

Methods

Patients undergoing total thyroidectomy without concurrent procedures were selected for review. Demographics, comorbidities, admission status, postoperative outcomes including minor and major complications, charges, and costs were collected. Admission status was categorized as inpatient (admission to hospital ≥1 night) or outpatient (discharged from the postoperative recovery unit). Costs were obtained from all related hospital, clinic, and emergency department visits at the University of Alabama at Birmingham within 30 days of the original surgery. After statistical analysis, outcomes and costs were compared between inpatient and outpatient total thyroidectomy patients.

Results

Of 870 total thyroidectomy patients included for analysis, 367 (42.2%) met outpatient criteria. A total of 169 patients (19.4%) had a complication, and only hypocalcemia occurred significantly more in the inpatient group (14.3% vs 9.26%; P < .05). No complications occurred more frequently in the outpatient population. There were no mortalities. There was a statistically significant difference between the total cost of inpatient and outpatient thyroidectomies, with outpatient surgery costing on average $2367.27 less per patient (P < .0001).

Conclusion

Outpatient total thyroidectomy can lead to cost reduction in highly selected patients who have few comorbidities while remaining safe for the patient.