Minimally invasive thyroidectomy versus conventional thyroidectomy in a tertiary care centre
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-2902.isj20262455Keywords:
Conventional, Minimally invasive, ThyroidectomyAbstract
Background: Since the advent of minimally invasive surgery, it has been applied for various intra-abdominal, retroperitoneal and even surgeries of the limbs. Thyroidectomy is one of the most performed endocrine surgeries. The first minimally invasive neck surgery was performed in 1997 following which, different approaches have been developed to reach the neck. Conventional open thyroidectomy remains the gold standard, while minimally invasive and endoscopic approaches are gaining popularity for their cosmetic and recovery advantages. To compare outcomes between conventional thyroidectomy and minimally invasive thyroidectomy in terms of operative time, postoperative pain, hospital stay, complications, cosmetic satisfaction and the feasibility of this new modality in a tertiary care centre.
Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery, Mysore Medical College and Research Institute from November 2021 to August 2025, including 15 patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Patients were divided into two groups–Group A (Conventional Thyroidectomy) and Group B (Minimally invasive thyroidectomy).
Results: Minimally invasive thyroidectomy showed a longer operative time compared to conventional surgery, but had less postoperative pain, reduced hospital stay and superior cosmetic satisfaction. All patients were assessed postoperatively for complications and followed up for 3 months for cosmetic outcome. Minimally invasive thyroidectomy offers great benefits in terms of cosmetic outcome.
Conclusions: Minimally invasive thyroidectomy is a safe and effective alternative to conventional thyroidectomy with better cosmetic outcomes and faster recovery, although requiring longer operative time and advanced surgical expertise.
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