Risk factors for neck hematoma after thyroid or parathyroid surgery: ten-year analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample database

Delayed infected hematoma in retrosternal area following total thyroidectomy: a case report

Introduction and Importance

Postoperative neck hematoma (PNH), a rare complication following thyroidectomy, occurs in only 1.1-3.15% of cases and can lead to life-threatening outcomes. More rarely, delayed PNHs with atypical clinical manifestations and positions have not yet been reported. Early identification and immediate medical intervention are of utmost importance in such cases.

Case Presentation

The authors represented a patient with thyroid cancer adherent to the trachea, who underwent post-thyroidectomy, experienced delayed PNH in the retrosternal region and was infected by respiratory pathogens. Meanwhile, the patient developed recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) paralysis after surgery. PNH was not identified in the clinical manifestations; instead, it was detected only through successive cervical ultrasound examinations.

Clinical Discussion

Although rare, PNH can lead to serious complications, especially delayed complications or those in atypical positions, without neck swelling. When simultaneously with RLN paralysis, the hematoma may be neglected. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Conclusion

Clinicians should be vigilant of atypical PNH because neck swelling may be absent. Cervical ultrasonography is essential for diagnosis and can be performed multiple times. Cervical CT scans should be part of the routine procedure, while contrast-enhanced ultrasound can help detect active bleeding. Early postoperative antibiotics are recommended if the tumor is closely attached to the trachea.

Parathyroidectomy outcomes for Asians in the United States: Implications for resident surgical education

Introduction

Outcomes for Asian patients in the United States are often overlooked in the surgical literature. Surgical education includes little emphasis on reporting outcomes for Asian patients in the United States. Our null hypothesis (H0) is that there is no difference in surgical complications following parathyroid surgery between Asians and all other ethnicities in the United States. Our alternate hypothesis (H1) is that Asians have more incidences of certain complications (possibly due to culture and language barriers).

Methods

Data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) was queried for parathyroidectomy and patient race. Complications within 30 days of surgery were extracted.

Results

Among, White, Black, Asian, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and Hispanic patients of the United States the Asians (p = 0.018) and Blacks (p = 0.003) had increased operative time for parathyroid surgery compared to other groups. Hispanics had the most surgical complications (p = 0.025). Blacks had statistically significant longer hospital stay (p < 0.0001).

Discussion/conclusion

United States Asian patient data is not typically analyzed separately for complications. We found that in the United States Asians have increased operative time for parathyroidectomy. Future studies of healthcare inequities should include analysis of data for Asian surgical data in the United States as this may help prevent future surgical complications.

Complications of revision surgery in case of bleeding after thyroid surgery: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review is to evaluate complications in patients undergoing surgical control of bleeding after thyroid surgery. Secondly, we have analyzed the rate of the main complications.

METHODS

The databases PubMed and EMBASE were searched for articles regarding complications after revision thyroid surgery for bleeding. A Systematic review methodology based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, six are retrospectives and three retrospectives controlled. The overall rate of bleeding after thyroid surgery was 1.38%. In these patients, the most common complication after revision surgery for bleeding is hypoparathyroidism 24.9% (95% CI: 20.7-29.5) followed by recurrent laryngeal nerve injury 8.1% (95% CI: 6.4-10.1) and wound infection 4.5% (95% CI: 2.5-7.6). Tracheostomy and other lethal complications are rarely described.

CONCLUSION

Although rare, complications after surgical control of bleeding in patients undergoing thyroid surgery can be serious. Therefore, in order to optimize the surgical outcomes, standardized protocol providing early detection and precise hemostasis procedure, is needed. Specific patient-informed consent for this condition should be created.

Operative Management of Thyroid Disease in Older Adults

As the population ages, both domestically and globally, clinicians will increasingly find themselves navigating treatment decisions for thyroid disease in older adults. When considering surgical treatment, individualizing risk assessment is particularly important, as older patients can present with very different health profiles. While fit, independent individuals may benefit from thyroidectomy with minimal risk, those with multiple comorbidities and poor functional status are at higher risk of perioperative complications, which can have adverse health effects and detract from long-term quality of life. In order to optimize surgical outcomes for older adults, strategies for accurate risk assessment and mitigation are being explored. Surgical decision-making also should consider the characteristics of the thyroid disease being treated, given many benign thyroid disorders and some well-differentiated thyroid cancers can be appropriately managed nonoperatively without compromising longevity. Shared decision-making becomes increasingly important to respect the health priorities and optimize outcomes for older adults with thyroid disease. This review summarizes the current knowledge of thyroid surgery in older adults to help inform decision-making among patients and their physicians.

Case Control Study of Risk Factors for Occurrence of Postoperative Hematoma After Thyroid Surgery: Ten Year Analysis of 6938 Operations in a Tertiary Center in Serbia

BACKGROUND

Post-thyroidectomy bleeding is rare, but potentially life-threatening complication. Early recognition with immediate intervention is crucial for the management of this complication. Therefore, it is very important to identify possible risk factors of postoperative hemorrhage as well as timing of postoperative hematoma occurrence.

METHODS

Retrospective review of 6938 patients undergoing thyroidectomy in a tertiary center in a ten year period (2009-2019) revealed 72 patients with postoperative hemorrhage requiring reoperation. Each patient who developed postoperative hematoma was matched with four control patients that did not develop postoperative hematoma after thyroidectomy. The patients and controls were matched by the date of operation and surgeon performing thyroidectomy.

RESULTS

The incidence of postoperative bleeding was 1.04%. On univariate analysis older age, male sex, higher BMI, higher ASA score, preoperative use of anticoagulant therapy, thyroidectomy for retrosternal goiter, larger thyroid specimens, larger dominant nodules, longer operative time, higher postoperative blood pressure and the use of postoperative subcutaneous heparin were identified as risk factors for postoperative bleeding. Sixty-nine patients (95.8%) bled within first 24 h after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The rate of postoperative bleeding in our study is consistent with recent literature. Male sex, the use of preoperative anticoagulant therapy, thyroidectomy for retrosternal goiter and the use of postoperative subcutaneous heparin remained statistically significant on multivariate analysis (p < 0.001). When identified, these risk factors may be an obstacle to the outpatient thyroidectomy in our settings.

Parathyroid hormone level after total thyroidectomy using conventional versus harmonic focus technique: Prospective randomized study

Background

Total thyroidectomy is a common procedure, we wish to examine the effects of utilizing a harmonic scalpel with traditional procedures on parathyroid hormone levels.

Patients and methods

100 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy at the Department of General Surgery, were enrolled in this prospective randomized study, were randomly allocated into two equal groups: Group I: total thyroidectomy using a harmonic scalpel (HS) and Group II: total thyroidectomy using conventional technique.

Results

There is a significant association between the technique of surgery and the decrease in Postoperative PTH, Mean Difference, Pre and Postoperative and the change Pre PTH (p-value <0.001).

Conclusion

The postoperative serum level of parathyroid hormone declined significantly after thyroidectomy if the conventional method was used. Using HS during thyroidectomy is safe and effective with low rates of hypoparathyroidism.

•

In treatment of many thyroid disease, total thyroidectomy is a viable option.

•

The biggest disadvantage is the potential for complications, but it also avoids recurrence.

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Hypoparathyroidism after thyroid surgery is a common problem.

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Using a harmonic scalpel may help to decrease the reduction in parathyroid hormone levels after surgery.

Post-thyroidectomy complications in southwestern Saudi Arabia: a retrospective study of a 6-year period

BACKGROUND

Thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland for non-neoplastic and neoplastic thyroid diseases. Major postoperative complications of thyroidectomy, including recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, hypocalcemia, and hypothyroidism, are not infrequent.

OBJECTIVE

Summarize the frequency of surgical complications of thyroidectomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

Secondary health facility in southwestern Saudi Arabia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We collected data from the records of patients who were managed for thyroid diseases between December 2013 and December 2019.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Complications following thyroidectomy.

SAMPLE SIZE

339 patients, 280 (82.6%) females and 59 (17.4%) males.

RESULTS

We found 311 (91.7%) benign and 28 (8.3%) malignant thyroid disorders. Definitive management included 129 (38.1%) total thyroidectomies, 70 (20.6%) hemithyroidectomies, 10 (2.9%) subtotal thyroidectomies and 5 (1.5%) near-total thyroidectomies with 125 (36.9%) patients treated non-surgically. The overall complication rate was 11.3%. There were 4 (1.9%) patients with recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, 16 (7.5%) patients with temporary hypoparathyroidism, 1 (0.5%) patient with paralysis of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve and 3 (1.4%) patients with wound hematoma.

CONCLUSION

The rate of complications following thyroidectomy is still high. There is a need for emphasis on comprehensive measures to control the high rate of complications.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design and no long-term follow up to monitor late complications.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None.

Endocrine Surgery: Management of Postoperative Complications Following Endocrine Surgery of the Neck

Cervical endocrine operations include parathyroidectomy, thyroid lobectomy, thyroidectomy, central neck dissection, and lateral neck dissection. The vital structures at risk include the recurrent laryngeal nerves to the intrinsic muscles of the larynx, additional cranial nerves, parathyroid glands essential for calcium homeostasis, aerodigestive structures, and great vessels. Here, the authors discuss complications of endocrine neck surgery, including cervical hematoma and other fluid collections, hypocalcemia from hypoparathyroidism, and nerve injuries, along with their prevention, mitigation, and management. Significant and permanent morbidity can result, but fortunately the overall rate of complications remains low, especially when surgery is performed by high-volume surgeons.

Congenital hemophilia A diagnosed with postoperative hemorrhage after thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid carcinoma: a case report

Background

Postoperative bleeding in thyroid surgery is a serious complication with fatal outcomes. Risk factors for postoperative hemorrhage have been reported as old age, male sex, Graves' disease, use of anticoagulants, and hematological disorders. Among the hematological diseases, congenital hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder characterized by absence or reduced levels of clotting factors VIII or IX. Most patients with hemophilia display bleeding symptoms during infancy or childhood, but diagnosis could be delayed in mild cases. We report a case of congenital hemophilia A that was diagnosed after three episodes of postoperative bleeding after thyroid surgery.

Case presentation

A 46-year-old man developed repeated postoperative hemorrhage after thyroid surgery for thyroid cancer. In this case, several irregularities were seen in the postoperative course, such as a relatively long interval between surgery and bleeding, the lack of an obvious bleeding point, fresh red blood dripping from the drain insertion site on the second postoperative day, and repeated bleeding three times. We therefore considered that the cause of postoperative hemorrhage might be other than the surgical operations. After a thorough examination, hemophilia A was diagnosed.

Conclusions

Hemophilia is a risk factor for postoperative bleeding in thyroid surgery. However, mild hemophilia shows normal prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time. We encountered a case of papillary thyroid carcinoma associated with congenital hemophilia A, which was diagnosed after repeated bleeding.

Thyroidectomy for Graves' Disease Predicts Postoperative Neck Hematoma and Hypocalcemia: A North American cohort study

Objective:

Examine the association of Graves’ disease with the development of postoperative neck hematoma.

Design:

A cohort of patients participating in the Thyroid Procedure-Targeted Database of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018.

Setting:

A North American surgical cohort study.

Methods:

17 906 patients who underwent thyroidectomy were included. Propensity score matching was performed to adjust for differences in baseline covariates. Multivariate logistic regression was used to ascertain the association between thyroidectomy for Graves’ disease and risk of postoperative adverse events within 30 days of surgery. The primary outcome was postoperative hematoma. Secondary outcomes were postoperative hypocalcemia and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.

Results:

One-to-three propensity score matching yielded 1207 patients with mean age (SD) of 42.6 (14.9) years and 1017 (84.3%) female in the group with Graves’ disease and 3621 patients with mean age (SD) of 46.7 (15.0%) years and 2998 (82.8%) female in the group with indications other than Graves’ disease for thyroidectomy. The cumulative 30-day incidence of postoperative hematoma was 3.1% (38/1207) in the Graves’ disease group and 1.9% (70/3621) in other patients. The matched cohort showed that Graves’ disease was associated with higher odds of postoperative hematoma (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.10-2.46) and hypocalcemia (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.66-2.50) compared with other indications for thyroid surgery. There was no difference in recurrent laryngeal nerve injury among the 2 groups.

Conclusions:

Patients with Graves’ disease undergoing thyroidectomy are more likely to suffer from postoperative hematoma and hypocalcemia compared to patients undergoing surgery for other indications.

Predictors and Consequences of Hematoma After Thyroidectomy: An American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database Analysis

BACKGROUND

Hematoma after thyroid surgery is a serious complication. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors and consequences of hematoma after thyroid surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 11,552 open thyroidectomies was conducted using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program 2016-2017 main and thyroidectomy-targeted procedure databases. Predictors of hematoma and the effect of hematoma on outcomes were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression, resulting in risk-adjusted odds ratios of hematoma and morbidity/mortality, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using R version 3.5.1.

RESULTS

We found that male gender (odds ratio 1.71, 95% confidence interval 1.25-2.32; P value 0.0007), Black race (1.89, 1.27-2.77; 0.0014), other race (1.76, 1.23-2.50; 0.0017), hypertension (1.68, 1.20-2.35; 0.0026), diabetes (1.45, 1.00-2.06; 0.0460), and bleeding disorders (3.63, 1.61-7.28; 0.0007) were independent risk factors for postoperative hematoma. The use of an energy device for hemostasis (0.63, 0.46-0.87; 0.0041) was independently associated with decreased hematoma rate. Postoperative hematoma was an independent risk factor for overall morbidity (3.04, 2.21-4.15; <0.0001), hypocalcemia (1.73, 1.08-2.66, 0.0162), recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (2.42, 1.57-3.60, <0.0001), pulmonary morbidity (18.91, 10.13-34.16, <0.0001), wound morbidity (10.61, 5.54-19.02, <0.0001), readmission (5.23, 3.34-7.92, <0.0001), return to operating room (90.73, 62.62-131.97; <0.0001), and length of stay greater than the median (5.10, 3.62-7.15, <0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Identified by this study are the predictors of postthyroidectomy hematoma and the consequences thereof. Notably, the use of energy devices for hemostasis was shown to be protective of postoperative hematoma. The results of this study may guide pre- and intra-operative decision-making for thyroidectomy to reduce rates of postoperative hematoma.

Risk Factors and Outcomes of Postoperative Neck Hematomas: An Analysis of 5,900 Thyroidectomies Performed at a Cancer Center

Introduction  Postoperative neck hematoma (PNH) is an uncommon but potentially-lethal complication of thyroid surgery.

Objective  To identify the risk factors for postthyroidectomy hematoma requiring reoperation, the timing, the source of the bleeding, the related respiratory distress requiring tracheotomy, and the late outcomes.

Methods  We retrospectively analyzed the records of 5,900 consecutive patients submitted to surgery for thyroid diseases at a single institution.

Results  In total, PNH occurred in 62 (1.1%) patients. Most cases of bleeding occurred within the first 6 hours after thyroidectomy, but 12.5% of the hematomas were observed after 24 hours. Obvious bleeding points were detected in 58.1% of the patients during the reoperation, with inferior thyroid artery branches and superior thyroid vessels being the most frequent bleeding sources. Only two patients required urgent tracheostomy. There were no hematoma-related deaths. Permanent hypoparathyroidism and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury are more frequent following reoperation for PNH. The factors significantly associated with PNH were: older age, concurrent lymph node dissection, and chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Gender, previous neck irradiation, presentation at diagnosis (symptomatic or incidental), substernal goiter, thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism, prior thyroid surgery, malignant histology, the extent of the surgery (total versus non-total thyroidectomy), the use of energy-based vessel sealing devices, the use of the hemostatic agent Surgicel, and the placement of a surgical drain were not significantly associated with PNH.

Conclusion  Hematoma after thyroid surgery is an uncommon complication, but it is related to significant postoperative morbidity. A better understanding of the risk factors and of the time until hematoma formation can help target high-risk patients for preventive measures and closer postoperative observation.

The American Association of Endocrine Surgeons Guidelines for the Definitive Surgical Management of Thyroid Disease in Adults

OBJECTIVE

To develop evidence-based recommendations for safe, effective, and appropriate thyroidectomy.

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of thyroid disease has evolved considerably over several decades leading to variability in rendered care. Over 100,000 thyroid operations are performed annually in the US.

METHODS

The medical literature from 1/1/1985 to 11/9/2018 was reviewed by a panel of 19 experts in thyroid disorders representing multiple disciplines. The authors used the best available evidence to construct surgical management recommendations. Levels of evidence were determined using the American College of Physicians grading system, and management recommendations were discussed to consensus. Members of the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons reviewed and commented on preliminary drafts of the content.

RESULTS

These clinical guidelines analyze the indications for thyroidectomy as well as its definitions, technique, morbidity, and outcomes. Specific topics include Pathogenesis and Epidemiology, Initial Evaluation, Imaging, Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Diagnosis, Molecular Testing, Indications, Extent and Outcomes of Surgery, Preoperative Care, Initial Thyroidectomy, Perioperative Tissue Diagnosis, Nodal Dissection, Concurrent Parathyroidectomy, Hyperthyroid Conditions, Goiter, Adjuncts and Approaches to Thyroidectomy, Laryngology, Familial Thyroid Cancer, Postoperative Care and Complications, Cancer Management, and Reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence-based guidelines were created to assist clinicians in the optimal surgical management of thyroid disease.

Effectiveness of hemostatic agents in thyroid surgery for the prevention of postoperative bleeding

Postoperative bleeding remains one of the most frequent, but rarely life-threatening complications in thyroid surgery. Although arterial bleeding is the main cause of postoperative hemorrhage, most often no actively bleeding vessel can be found during revision. Therefore, the coagulation technique for larger vessels may play a minor role, and hemostatic agents could be of higher importance. In this descriptive, retrospective study, data of 279 patients with thyroid surgery (total of 414 thyroid lobectomies) were collected. We reviewed the electronic medical record by analyzing the histological, operative, laboratory and discharge reports in regards to postoperative bleeding. Of the 414 operated thyroid lobes, 2.4% (n = 10) bled. 1.4% (n = 6) needed reoperation while the other 1.0% (n = 4) could be treated conservatively. Hemostatic patches were applied 286 (69.1%) times. Of the 128 (30.9%) patch-free operated sides, 4.7% (n = 6) suffered postoperative bleeding. Tachosil® alone was used 211 (51.0%) times and bleeding occurred in 1.4% (n = 3). Without statistical significance (p = 0.08) the use of Tachosil® seems to help preventing postoperative bleeding. The combination with other patches doesn’t appear to be more efficient.

Safety and Cost-effectiveness of LigaSure® in Total Thyroidectomy in Comparison with Conventional Suture Tie Technique

Introduction: Total thyroidectomy has been considered to be a treatment of choice for thyroid malignancies. It has recently gained popularity as gold standard for benign thyroid disorders requiring surgical treatment. Because of higher number of complications associated with total thyroidectomy, it is still considered an adventurous endeavor. Most important improvements in thyroid surgery include laparoscopic thyroidectomy, energy based devices (EBD) like Harmonic Focus® and LigaSure® for dissection and hemostasis, intraoperative neuromonitoring, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) assay technology.

Aim of Study: Recent studies have suggested that despite lesser complication rates with LigaSure dissection method in total thyroidectomy, it is associated with prolonged operation time. Aim of our study was to compare conventional suture tie technique and LigaSure thyroidectomy, in terms of perioperative complications including bleeding, recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury, postoperative hematoma, hypocalcemia, operation time, and cost-effectiveness. 

Results: This is a retrospective descriptive study done at Shifa Internationall Hospital/Shifa College of Medicine/Shifa Tameer e’ Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan from 1st of June 2016 to 1st of June 2018. One hundred and two (102) patients who underwent surgical treatment for benign thyroid diseases were included in the study. Study was done after approval from ethical committee of Shifa International Hospital/Shifa Tameer e’ Millat University. Group A included patients in whom LigaSure was used for hemostasis and dissection during total thyroidectomy. Group B included patients who underwent total thyroidectomy by traditional clamp, tie, and electrocautery method for hemostasis and dissection. Frequency of female patients in group A was 45 (88.2%) and in group B was 41 (80.3%). In group A frequency of male patients was 9 (17.6%) and in group B it was 7 (13.7%). Mean operative time in group A was significantly lower (92 ± 9.61 min) than group B (123 ± 7.96 min). Mean intraoperative blood loss in group A was estimated to be 51.73 ± 5.65 mL and 139.42 ± 7.31 mL in group B. Transient hypocalcemia was the most common complication in both the groups. In group A 6.8% (n=7) patients developed transient postoperative hypocalcemia. Three patients in group B (2.9%) had transient hypocalcemia.

Conclusion: LigaSure was significantly advantageous over conventional technique in reducing risk of complications and operation time as well as perioperative and postoperative blood loss. The reduction of operative times resulted in decreased operating room occupancy costs but the overall cost of surgery was significantly higher in LigaSure group.

Association of Vessel-Sealant Devices vs Conventional Hemostasis With Postoperative Neck Hematoma After Thyroid Operations

Importance

Vessel-sealant devices (VSDs) have been popularized for use in thyroid operations; however, the association of their use with postoperative neck hematoma, a rare but potentially fatal complication, has not been well studied.

Objective

To examine the association of VSDs vs conventional hemostasis (CH) in thyroid operations with the development of neck hematoma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study evaluated 10 903 patients in the Thyroid Procedure-Targeted Database of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017. One-to-one nearest-neighbor propensity score matching was conducted to adjust for differences in baseline covariates, including demographics, comorbidities, indications for thyroid procedure (goiter, Graves disease, malignant and benign thyroid nodule), and several other thyroid-specific characteristics, between the VSD and CH groups.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was postoperative hematoma requiring intervention with open evacuation, return to the operating room, tracheostomy, additional observation, or extended length of stay. Secondary outcomes include recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, operative duration, and hospital length of stay.

Results

One-to-one propensity score matching yielded 6522 patients (mean [SD] age, 52 [15] years; 8544 [78.4%] female) with 3261 in each exposure group such that distribution of observed baseline covariates was not different between groups of the same propensity score. Within the matched cohort, CH was associated with higher odds of neck hematoma compared with VSD (odds ratio, 2.33; 95% CI, 1.55-3.49; P < .001), with 34 (1.0%) hematomas in the VSD group and 78 (2.4%) in the CH group. On the basis of this analysis, the number needed to treat with a VSD to prevent 1 postoperative hematoma was 74. Secondary outcomes included longer length of hospital stay (incidence rate ratio, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.23-1.36; P < .001]) in the CH group compared with the VSD group but no difference in the odds of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (odds ratio, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.73-1.11; P = .32) or operative duration (incidence rate ratio, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.96-1.01; P = .24).

Conclusions and Relevance

Use of VSDs during thyroid operations was associated with reduced odds of neck hematoma compared with CH techniques without increasing odds of nerve injury. The results suggest that postoperative neck hematoma rates after thyroid surgery may differ based on the hemostasis technique and that these differences should be considered when developing strategies for quality improvement of postoperative outcomes.

Association of Continued Preoperative Aspirin Use and Bleeding Complications in Patients Undergoing Thyroid Surgery

Importance

No evidence exists to direct the management of preoperative aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) use in patients undergoing thyroid surgery. Nevertheless, a considerable number of patients interrupt receiving aspirin therapy during the preoperative period to minimize bleeding complications despite the increased risk of experiencing major adverse cardiac events.

Objective

To determine whether aspirin therapy continued preoperatively increases bleeding complications in patients undergoing thyroid surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Retrospective analysis of a consecutive sample of 570 patients, aged 18 to 100 years, who underwent thyroid surgery for benign and malignant disease from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2015, by a single surgeon at a tertiary referral hospital center in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Exposures

Patients receiving aspirin therapy and patients not receiving aspirin therapy (aspirin naive) preoperatively.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Comparison of estimated blood loss, substantial blood loss, operative hematoma, nonoperative hematoma, and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.

Results

Of 570 patients who underwent thyroid surgery, 106 (18.6%) were performed in patients receiving aspirin; of these, 23 (21.7%) were men and 105 (99.1%) were older than 45 years. Those receiving aspirin therapy displayed a 14.4-year difference in age (95% CI, 11.6-17.1). The aspirin group displayed a 20.3% absolute increase (95% CI, 9.3-30.7) in African American patients. Aspirin therapy was not associated with a statistically significant or clinically meaningful increase in intraoperative blood loss (2.5 mL; 95% CI, -0.4 to 5.3). Aspirin therapy was associated with a statistically significant increase in total hematoma formation (3.3%; 95% CI, 0.4-9.0), but the results were inconclusive. Aspirin therapy was not associated with a statistically significant increase in recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (2.6%; 95% CI, -1.1 to 8.6), but the results were inconclusive.

Conclusions and Relevance

These results suggest that aspirin therapy can be maintained prior to thyroid surgery without increased intraoperative bleeding. Further research with a larger sample size and more outcome events are required to make definitive conclusions regarding the association between aspirin use and complications, including hematoma and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.

Risk factors for neck hematoma requiring surgical re-intervention after thyroidectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to determine the risk factors associated with neck hematoma requiring surgical re-intervention after thyroidectomy.

METHODS

We systematically searched all articles available in the literature published in PubMed and CNKI databases through May 30, 2017. The quality of these articles was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale, and data were extracted for classification and analysis by focusing on articles related with neck hematoma requiring surgical re-intervention after thyroidectomy. Our meta-analysis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

RESULTS

Of the 1028 screened articles, 26 met the inclusion criteria and were finally analyzed. The factors associated with a high risk of neck hematoma requiring surgical re-intervention after thyroidectomy included male gender (odds ratio [OR]: 1.86, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.60-2.17, P < 0.00001), age (MD: 4.92, 95% CI: 4.28-5.56, P < 0.00001), Graves disease (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.60-2.05, P < 0.00001), hypertension (OR: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.43-3.60, P = 0.0005), antithrombotic drug use (OR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.51-2.44, P < 0.00001), thyroid procedure in low-volume hospitals (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.12-1.57, P = 0.001), prior thyroid surgery (OR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.11-3.37, P = 0.02), bilateral thyroidectomy (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.09-1.30, P < 0.0001), and neck dissection (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.23-1.94, P = 0.0002). Smoking status (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.99-1.42, P = 0.06), malignant tumors (OR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.83-1.20, P = 0.97), and drainage used (OR: 2.02, 95% CI: 0.69-5.89, P = 0.20) were not significantly associated with postoperative neck hematoma.

CONCLUSION

We identified certain risk factors for neck hematoma requiring surgical re-intervention after thyroidectomy, including male gender, age, Graves disease, hypertension, antithrombotic agent use, history of thyroid procedures in low-volume hospitals, previous thyroid surgery, bilateral thyroidectomy, and neck dissection. Appropriate intervention measures based on these risk factors may reduce the incidence of postoperative hematoma and yield greater benefits for the patients.

Analysis of the impact of race on blood transfusion in pediatric scoliosis surgery

INTRODUCTION

Surgical correction of pediatric scoliosis is associated with significant blood loss. Minimizing estimated blood loss and blood transfusion is beneficial as transfusions have been associated with increased morbidity, including risk of surgical site infections, longer hospitalizations, and increased cost. Although there is evidence that African-American or Black adults are more likely to require intraoperative blood transfusion compared with Caucasian or White adults, the reasons for this difference are unclear.

METHODS

The electronic records for all patients <18 y/o undergoing primary corrective scoliosis surgery by a single pediatric orthopedic surgeon at a single academic medical center between 2013 and 2015 were collected and reviewed. Multivariate models were performed to assess the association between Black race and blood loss/transfusion in primary pediatric scoliosis surgery.

RESULTS

In a multivariate model, Black race was independently associated with 1.61 times higher estimated blood loss than White race (P < .01; 95% CI = 1.16-2.23). Additionally, compared to a White patient, the odds a Black patient received blood transfusion was 6.25 times higher (P = .03; 95% CI = 1.56-25.06) and among the patients who received blood transfusion, Black race was independently associated with 2.61 times greater volume of blood transfusion than White race (P < .01; 95% CI = 1.54-4.41).

CONCLUSION

Black race was independently associated with increased estimated blood loss, increased rate of blood transfusion, and increased amount of blood transfused during surgical correction of pediatric scoliosis. Further investigation is needed to better understand the etiology of the disparity and assess opportunities for improving outcomes.

[Complications after thyroid gland operations in Germany : A routine data analysis of 66,902 AOK patients]

BACKGROUND

Routine data from hospitals in the public healthcare system allow the analysis of large patient datasets without generating additional documentation efforts for hospitals. This study reports the frequencies of postoperative complications after thyroid surgery based on routine nationwide data. Moreover, volume-outcome relationships were investigated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Nationwide routine data from insured patients of the Local Health Insurance Fund (AOK) who underwent thyroid surgery between 2008 and 2010 were analyzed. Complications were determined based on indicators for permanent vocal cord palsy, re-bleeding with re-operations and wound infections with specific treatment. The effect of hospital volumes (volume quintiles) on the indicators was determined by multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 66,902 thyroid gland operations were identified. The overall frequency of permanent vocal cord palsy was 1.5 %, re-bleeding 1.8 % and wound infections 0.4 %. In the four lowest case volume categories the risk of permanent vocal cord palsy was significantly higher compared to the highest case volume hospitals (odds ratio 1.5, 1.7, 1.7 and 2.2, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study represents the reality of healthcare for thyroid surgery in Germany. Additionally, it was determined that the risk for permanent vocal cord palsy after thyroid gland operations decreased with increasing case volumes of hospitals.

Thyroidectomy in elderly patients aged ≥70 years

Worldwide, the indications for thyroid surgery have been continuously extended among elderly patients in the last 20 years. The balance between treatment indication and surgical risk is certainly an interesting topic for every thyroid surgeon. This paper is a review of recent literature from January 2005 up to April 2017. We analyzed three principal subjects: indications for surgical treatment, medical complications and surgical complications. We can summarize the conclusions of our analysis, stating that age could not be considered as an absolute factor, but in relation to the comorbidities and the general clinical condition of the patient. Special risk indices dedicated to geriatric patients could be very useful in order to facilitate the decision-making process; however, relying on the current knowledge, we could state that there is value in providing surgery to geriatric patients in highly specialized and high-volume centers, where access to technology and its systematic use, coupled with surgeons' experience, could certainly avail the geriatric patient management.

Postoperative Outcomes in Graves' Disease Patients: Results from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database

BACKGROUND

Current surgical indications for Graves' disease include intractability to medical and/or radioablative therapy, compressive symptoms, and worsening ophthalmopathy. Total thyroidectomy for Graves' disease may be technically challenging and lead to untoward perioperative outcomes. This study examines outcomes in patients with Graves' disease who underwent total thyroidectomy and assesses its safety for this patient population.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was performed using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from 2006 to 2011. Total thyroidectomy performed in patients with Graves' disease, benign multinodular goiter (MNG), and thyroid cancer was identified. Demographic factors, comorbidities, and postoperative complications were evaluated. Chi-square, one-way analysis of variance, and risk-adjusted multivariable logistic regression were performed.

RESULTS

Of 215,068 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy during the study period, 11,205 (5.2%) had Graves' disease, 110,124 (51.2%) MNG, and 93,739 (43.6%) thyroid malignancy. Patients with Graves' disease were younger than MNG and thyroid cancer patients (M_age = 42.8 years vs. 55.5 and 51.0 years; p < 0.01). The Graves' disease group included a higher proportion of women (p < 0.01) and nonwhites (p < 0.01). Postoperatively, Graves' patients had significantly higher rates of hypocalcemia (12.4% vs. 7.3% and 10.3%; p < 0.01), hematomas requiring reoperation (0.7% vs. 0.4% and 0.4%; p < 0.01), and longer mean hospital stay (2.7 days vs. 2.4 and 2.2 days; p < 0.01) compared to MNG and thyroid cancer patients, respectively. On risk-adjusted multivariate logistic regression, Graves' disease was independently associated with a higher risk of vocal-cord paralysis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.36 [confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.69]), tracheostomy (OR = 1.35 [CI 1.1-1.67]), postoperative hypocalcemia (OR = 1.65 [CI 1.54-1.77]), and hematoma requiring reoperation (OR = 2.79 [CI 2.16-3.62]) compared to MNG patients. High-volume centers for total thyroidectomy were independently associated with lower risk of postoperative complications, including in patients with Graves' disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite low overall morbidity following total thyroidectomy, Graves' disease patients are at increased risk of postoperative complications, including bleeding, vocal-cord paralysis, tracheostomy, and hypocalcemia. These risks appear to be lower when performed at high-volume centers, and thus referral to these centers should be considered. Total thyroidectomy may therefore be a safe treatment option for appropriately selected patients with Graves' disease when performed by experienced surgeons.

Resource utilization associated with cervical hematoma after thyroid and parathyroid surgery

BACKGROUND

Postoperative cervical hematoma (PCH) after thyroid and parathyroid surgery is a well-known complication. This study used data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to identify risk factors, estimate mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total costs attributable to PCH in patients undergoing procedures for thyroid and parathyroid diseases.

METHODS

Patients aged >18 y who underwent thyroid or parathyroid surgery between 2001 and 2011 were identified and stratified by the occurrence of PCH. Univariate analyses of patient demographics, clinical and hospital characteristics were performed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for hematoma formation. LOS and costs were fit to linear regression models to determine the effect of PCH after adjusting for patient and hospital characteristics.

RESULTS

Of patients who underwent thyroid or parathyroid surgery, 619 patients (0.8%) had a PCH. Predisposing factors included nonelective admission (emergent: OR = 2.01, P < 0.0001; urgent: OR = 1.47, P = 0.003), diagnosis of Graves' disease (OR = 1.90, P < 0.0001), or other benign pathology (OR = 1.43, P = 0.011) and having ≥2 comorbidities (2-3 comorbidities, OR = 1.24; P = 0.036 and ≥ 4 comorbidities, OR = 2.28; P < 0.0001). After adjusting for those characteristics, the total excess LOS and costs attributable to PCH were 2.1 d (P < 0.0001) and $7316 (P < 0.0001), respectively. In addition, after risk adjustment, odds of mortality more than tripled (P < 0.0001) in the setting of PCH.

CONCLUSIONS

Because risk for PCH is largely driven by preoperative patient risk factors, five clinicians have an opportunity to stratify patients accordingly and thereby minimize the resource utilization and health care spending among those with lowest risk.

23-hour observation endocrine neck surgery: lessons learned from a case series of over 1700 patients

Although the surgical procedures concerning the thyroid and the parathyroid glands are considered safe, the possible occurrence of complications (mainly hematoma and hypocalcemia) limit the short stay surgery. At our institution a 23-hour-surgery with overnight hospital stay for endocrine neck surgical procedures was introduced since 2004. The present case series analyses the institutional results. Over 1913 endocrine neck surgery procedures, 1730 patients (90,2%) were managed according to this model. Among these patients, 92 suffered from hypocalcemia, 12 from airways obstruction due to the hematoma, 5 from bilateral nerve palsy. 15 more patients had unpredictable general disease compromising the short-stay surgery management. The goal of the discharge after 23 hours was achieved in 92,8% of cases with a mean hospital stay of 1,1days. The 23-hour observation with an overnight surgery is feasible and safe if the correct indications are observed. A considerable volume of specific activity is needed.

Risk factors for post-thyroidectomy haemorrhage: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Post-thyroidectomy haemorrhage is a rare but potentially life-threatening and unpredictable complication of thyroid surgery. In this study, we analysed the potential risk factors for the occurrence of post-thyroidectomy haemorrhage.

METHODS

The PubMed and SCIE databases were comprehensively searched for studies published before June 30, 2016. Studies on patients who underwent an open thyroidectomy with or without neck dissection were included, and RevMan 5.3 software was used to analyse the data.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies and 424 563 patients were included in this meta-analysis, and post-thyroidectomy haemorrhage occurred in 6277 patients (incidence rate = 1.48%). The following variables were associated with an increased risk of post-thyroidectomy haemorrhage: older age (MD = 4.30, 95% CI = 3.09-5.52, P < 0.00001), male sex (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.54-1.94, P < 0.00001), Graves' disease (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.44-2.15, P < 0.00001), antithrombotic agents use (OR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.55-2.49, P < 0.00001), bilateral operation (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.50-1.96, P < 0.00001), neck dissection (OR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.11-2.11, P = 0.01) and previous thyroid surgery (OR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.12-2.34, P = 0.01). Malignant tumours (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.89-1.28, P = 0.46) and drainage device use (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 0.74-2.18, P = 0.4) were not associated with post-thyroidectomy haemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

Our systematic review identified a number of risk factors for post-thyroidectomy haemorrhage, including older age, male sex, Graves' disease, antithrombotic agents use, bilateral operation, neck dissection and previous thyroid surgery. Early control of modifiable risk factors could improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Medicolegal implications of surgical errors and complications in neck surgery: A review based on the Italian current legislation

Aim of the present paper is the review of the principal complications associated to endocrine neck surgery considering how expertise, full adoption of guidelines, appropriate technology and proper informed consent may limit the medicolegal claims at the light of the incoming new regulation of the medical professional legal responsibility. A literature search, using the Medline/PubMed database for full-length papers, was used. Postoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy and hypoparathy-roidism remain the principal causes of surgical malpractice claims . In the procedure of neck lymphadenctomy intra-operative haemorrhage, thoracic duct injury, injuries to loco-regional nerves can be observed and can be source of claims. After many years of increased medicolegal litigations, the Italian government is proposing a drastic change in the regulations of supposed medical malpractice in order to guarantee the patient's right to a safe treatment and in the meantime to defend clinicians from often unmotivated and prejudicial legal cases. Surgical errors and complications in neck surgery are a relevant clinical issue. Only the combination of surgical and clinical expertise, application of guidelines, appropriate technology and a routinely use of specific informed consent can contain potential medicolegal implications.

Risk of Complications after Thyroidectomy and Parathyroidectomy: A Case Series with Planned Chart Review

OBJECTIVE

To develop a predictive model for the risk of complications after thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with planned chart review of patients undergoing surgery, 2007-2013.

SETTING

Kaiser Permanente Northern California and Kaiser Permanente Southern California.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Patients (N = 16,458) undergoing thyroid and parathyroid procedures were randomly assigned to model development and validation groups. We used univariate analysis to assess relationships between each of 28 predictor variables and 30-day complication rates. We subsequently entered all variables into a recursive partitioning decision tree analysis, with P < .05 as the basis for branching.

RESULTS

Among patients undergoing thyroidectomies, the most important predictor variable was thyroid cancer. For patients with thyroid cancer, additional risk predictors included coronary artery disease and central neck dissection. For patients without thyroid cancer, additional predictors included coronary artery disease, dyspnea, complete thyroidectomy, and lobe size. Among patients undergoing parathyroidectomies, the most important predictor variable was coronary artery disease, followed by cerebrovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. The model performed similarly in the validation groups.

CONCLUSION

For patients undergoing thyroid surgery, 7 of 28 predictor variables accounted for statistically significant differences in the risk of 30-day complications; for patients undergoing parathyroid surgery, 3 variables accounted for significant differences in risk. This study forms the foundation of a parsimonious model to predict the risk of complications among patients undergoing thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Medications Significantly Increase the Risk of Postoperative Hematoma: Review of over 4500 Thyroid and Parathyroid Procedures

PURPOSE

Antiplatelet and/or anticoagulant medication use is common. Abstinence a week before surgery may still result in altered hemostasis. The study aim was to report on perioperative antiplatelet and anticoagulant use in thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy patients, and to determine the association with postoperative hematoma (POH) rates.

METHODS

Retrospective review of a prospective endocrine surgery database was performed. Procedure extent was defined as unilateral, bilateral, or extensive. Antiplatelets were categorized as none, 325 mg aspirin (ASA), <325 mg ASA, clopidogrel, or other. Anticoagulants were categorized as none, oral, or injectable.

RESULTS

A total of 4514 patients were identified. POH developed in 22 patients (0.5 %). Rates were similar between age, gender, and reoperative status. POH were seven times more common after thyroidectomy (0.8 vs. 0.1 %, p < 0.01). Unilateral procedures had lower POH rates than bilateral or extensive (0.1 vs. 0.9 vs. 0.8 %, p < 0.01). POH rates in patients receiving 325 mg ASA (0.8 %) or clopidogrel (2.2 %) were much higher than patients not receiving antiplatelets (0.5 %) or receiving <325 mg ASA (0.1 %, p = 0.04). Oral anticoagulants (2.2 %) and injectable anticoagulants (10.7 %) had much higher POH rates than patients not receiving anticoagulants (0.4 %, p < 0.01). Target organ, patient gender, procedure extent, antiplatelet use, and anticoagulant use were included on logistic regression to determine association with POH. Bilateral procedures, thyroidectomy, clopidogrel, oral, and injectable anticoagulants were all independently associated with POH.

CONCLUSIONS

POH occur more frequently after thyroidectomy and during bilateral procedures. Patients requiring clopidogrel or any anticoagulant coverage are at much higher risk for POH. These higher-risk patients should be considered for observation to ensure prompt POH recognition and intervention.

Cervical hematoma following an endocrine surgical procedure: The MD Anderson experience

BACKGROUND

Airway compromise from postoperative neck hematoma remains the most feared complication after cervical endocrine operative procedures. Events are rare and potentially lethal, and clear multidisciplinary guidelines for management of these patients are lacking. The aim of our study was to review the experience of a tertiary cancer center in this scenario.

METHODS

Data prospectively collected over a 10-year period, between 2005 and 2014, were retrospectively analyzed. We included all adult patients who had had a neck operation and needed reoperation for postoperative neck hematoma after an endocrine procedure. We excluded pediatric patients and cases with incomplete records.

RESULTS

The inclusion criteria were met for 21 patients (21/2,930; 0.7%). The median age at operation was 56.2 years (SD: 16.7). The M:F ratio was 1:2. All 21 patients presented with a neck swelling at the time of reoperation. Eight of 21 patients (38%) underwent emergency bedside clot evacuation. Presentation was within 6 hours for two thirds (14/21) of the patients; the remaining one third of the patients had the hematoma develop during the evening/night (from 1700-0500). The mean estimated hematoma size was 98 cc (SD: 58). A source of bleeding was identified in 12 of 21 cases (57%). A total of 15.8% of patients had an airway classified as difficult/awkward under the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification for their wound re-exploration.

CONCLUSION

Postoperation, increased vigilance is needed for the first 6 hours to detect patients with neck swelling. Emergency drainage by the bedside was performed in 38% of patients. A difficult airway was uncommon in our series.

Factors Associated With Neck Hematoma After Thyroidectomy: A Retrospective Analysis Using a Japanese Inpatient Database

To identify risk factors for post-thyroidectomy hematoma requiring airway intervention or surgery ("wound hematoma") and determine post-thyroidectomy time to intervention. Post-thyroidectomy hematoma is rare but potentially lethal. Information on wound hematoma in a nationwide clinical setting is scarce.Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, we extracted data from records of patients undergoing thyroidectomy from July 2010 to March 2014. Patients with clinical stage IV cancer or those with bilateral neck dissection were excluded because they could have undergone planned tracheotomy on the day of thyroidectomy. We assessed the association between background characteristics and wound hematoma ≤2 days post-thyroidectomy, using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Among 51,968 patients from 880 hospitals, wound hematoma occurred in 920 (1.8%) ≤2 days post-thyroidectomy and in 203 (0.4%) ≥3 days post-thyroidectomy (in-hospital mortality = 0.05%). Factors significantly associated with wound hematoma ≤2 days post-thyroidectomy were male sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30-1.77); higher age (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00-1.02); overweight or obese (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.04-1.44); type of surgery (partial thyroidectomy for benign tumor compared with: total thyroidectomy, benign tumor [OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.45-2.63]; partial thyroidectomy, malignant tumor [OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.00-1.46]; total thyroidectomy, malignant tumor [OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.82-3.49]; and thyroidectomy for Graves disease [OR 3.88, 95% CI 2.59-5.82]); neck dissection (OR, 1.53, 95% CI 1.05-2.23); antithrombotic agents (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.15-2.17); and blood transfusion (OR 5.33, 95% CI 2.39-11.91). Closer monitoring of airway and neck is recommended for patients with risk factors, and further cautious monitoring beyond 3 days post-thyroidectomy.

Effectiveness of an advanced hemostatic pad combined with harmonic scalpel in thyroid surgery. A prospective study

INTRODUCTION

Hemostasis during thyroidectomy is essential; however the most efficient and cost-effective way to achieve this is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of total thyroidectomy (TT) performed with the combination of harmonic scalpel (HS) and an advanced hemostatic pad (Hemopatch).

METHODS

Patient undergone TT were divided into two groups: HS + hemopatch and HS + traditional hemostasis groups. The primary endpoint was 24-h drain output and blood-loss requiring reintervention. Secondary endpoints included surgery duration, postsurgical complications and hypocalcemia rates.

RESULTS

Between September 2014 and March 2015, 60 patients were enrolled (30 to Hs + Hemopatch, 30 to Hs and standard hemostasis); 71.4% female; mean age 48.5 years. The 24-h drain output was lower in the HS + hemopatch group compared with standard TT. HS and hemopatch also had a shorter mean surgery time (p < 0.0001) vs standard TT.

CONCLUSION

combination of hemopatch plus HS is effective and safe for TT with a complementary hemostatic approach.

An Evaluation of Postoperative Complications and Cost After Short-Stay Thyroid Operations

BACKGROUND

Concern for postoperative complications causing airway compromise has limited widespread acceptance of ambulatory thyroid surgery. We evaluated differences in outcomes and hospital costs in those monitored for a short stay of 6 h (SS), inpatient observation of 6-23 h (IO), or inpatient admission of >23 h (IA).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing thyroidectomy from 2006 to 2012. The incidence of postoperative hemorrhage, nerve dysfunction, and hypocalcemia were evaluated, as well as cost data comparing the SS and IO groups.

RESULTS

Of 1447 thyroidectomies, 880 (60.8 %) were performed as SS, 401 (27.7 %) as IO, and 166 (11.5 %) as IA. Fewer patients in the SS group (59 %) underwent total thyroidectomy than IO (73 %) and IA (71 %; p < 0.01), and SS patients had smaller thyroid weights (27.9 g) compared with IO and IA (47.2 and 98.9 g, respectively; p < 0.01). Ten (0.69 %) patients developed hematomas requiring reoperation, five of the ten patients received antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy perioperatively. Only one patient in the IA group bled within the 6- to 23-h period, and no patients with bleeding who were discharged at 6 h would have benefitted from 23-h observation. Twenty-four (1.66 %) recurrent laryngeal nerve injuries were identified, 16 with temporary neuropraxias. In addition, 24 (1.66 %) patients had symptomatic hypocalcemia, which was transient in 17 individuals. Financial data showed higher payments and lower costs associated with SS compared with IO.

CONCLUSIONS

Selective SS thyroidectomy can be safe and cost effective, with few overall complications in patients undergoing more complex operations involving larger thyroids who were admitted to hospital.