[Thyroid surgery in Rogaland]. / Thyreoideakirurgi i Rogaland.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Thyroid surgery is performed at both hospitals in Rogaland county. In this retrospective study we compare clinical features, including preoperative diagnostics, type of surgery, and recorded postoperative complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1994 and 1998, 380 patients (89% women) underwent thyroid surgery. Data were retrieved from hospital records and surgical notes. Non-parametric methods were employed for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The annual operative incidence per 100,000 inhabitants was 20.5; there was no significant difference between the two hospitals. Median age was 45 years (range 14-85). Two thirds of the procedures were done at Rogaland Central Hospital (SiR). At Haugesund Hospital (HS) 31% of the 120 patients were operated in the department of ear-nose-throat diseases. Ultrasound of the thyroid gland was requested more often at HS, whereas thyroid scintigraphy was more frequently done at SiR. Fine needle aspiration cytology was performed on 80% of the patients, including non-representative samples in 13% at HS and 8% at SiR, respectively. Hemithyroidectomy was the most frequently performed operation. The operative mortality was zero. Postoperative complications were few permanent hypoparathyroidism was encountered in two (0.5%) patients and unilateral permanent vocal cord paralysis in five (1.1%) patients. INTERPRETATION: Our results are in accordance with national and international standards. Observed differences in preoperative diagnostics are most likely explained by different traditions among general practitioners and different access to imaging modalities. Implementation of updated guidelines for referral and work up of this group of patients are warranted.