Quality of life of patients with thyroid cancer in Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: Quality of life (QoL) in thyroid cancer patients is comparable to patients with other tumours with worse prognosis. The aim was to evaluate QoL in Colombian patients with thyroid carcinoma and to explore the association of QoL scores with patient features. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. The present research was carried out from data obtained for the validation study of the Spanish version of the THYCA-QoL. Adult patients with thyroid carcinoma who underwent total or partial thyroidectomy were included and asked to complete the Spanish-validated versions of the THYCA-QoL and EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaires. The scores of each domain and single items underwent linear transformation to values of 0-100. Comparisons of scale scores with clinical variables were performed. RESULTS: We included 293 patients. The global EORTC QLQ-C30 score was 73.2±22.1 and the domains with poorer values were emotional and cognitive and the symptoms with poorer values were insomnia and fatigue. The global THYCA-QOL score was 28.4±17.8. The domains with poorer values were neuromuscular and psychological and the single items with poorer values were headaches and tingling hands/feet. CONCLUSION: Colombian patients with thyroid cancer have a good prognosis, but they experience important problems related to QoL. QoL was influenced by demographic and clinical factors such as age, sex functional status and clinical stage.

Early hospital discharge through prediction of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism.

INTRODUCTION: Hypoparathyroidism is the most common postsurgical complication of total thyroidectomy. Furthermore, it is the main cause of prolonged hospitalisation after this procedure. OBJECTIVE: To predict the probability of post-thyroidectomy hypocalcaemia according to the levels of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), as well as to determine the needs for treatment with exogenous calcium according to the levels of serum calcium (Ca). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study was carried out on patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between January 2017 and January 2020 at Los Arcos del Mar Menor University Hospital (HULAMM). iPTH and Ca levels ​​were measured at 4, 24 and 48 h after the surgery. Follow-up was 6 months. RESULTS: Ninety-four patients were operated on. Temporary and permanent postoperative hypoparathyroidism percentages were, respectively, 51.06% and 6.38%. iPTH level 24 h after the procedure was the most reliable predictor of post-thyroidectomy temporary hypoparathyroidism (Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) = 0.933, p < .001). iPTH levels ​​≥29 pg/mL predicted normal parathyroid metabolism. CONCLUSIONS: The combined values of iPTH and Ca levels 24 h after thyroidectomy seems to be a reliable, safe and efficient method to control the post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. Our protocol could reduce the hospital stay of patients at low risk of hypocalcaemia, allowing them to be discharged from the hospital on the first postoperative morning and identifying patients at high risk of hypocalcaemia early.

Manejo anestésico para cirugía tiroidea. Una revisión no sistemática / Anesthetic management for thyroid surgery. A non-systematic review

Resumen: Las hormonas tiroideas forman parte fundamental del mantenimiento de la homeostasia, se encuentra particularmente relacionado con la función cardiovascular. Los estados distiroideos clínicos o subclínicos pueden comprometer este sistema en forma significativa durante los procedimientos quirúrgicos. Existen múltiples fármacos que pueden modificar la patología tiroidea en mayor o menor medida, disminuyendo el riesgo de complicaciones en la eventualidad de una cirugía. La utilización de anestesia general, ya sea balanceada o total endovenosa, se ha convertido en el estándar de oro, por la menor tasa de complicaciones asociadas. Durante el período perioperatorio se debe mantener un monitoreo estricto de la función cardiovascular para detectar alteraciones en forma temprana e iniciar las correcciones necesarias.

Abstract: Thyroid hormones are a fundamental part of the maintenance of homeostasis, it is particularly related to cardiovascular function. Clinical or subclinical dysthyroid states can significantly compromise this system during surgical procedures. There are multiple drugs that can modify the thyroid pathology to a greater or lesser extent, reducing the risk of complications in the event of surgery. The use of general anesthesia, whether balanced or total intravenous, has become the Gold standard, due to the lower rate of associated complications. During the perioperative period, strict monitoring of cardiovascular function must be maintained to detect alterations early and initiate the necessary corrections.

Theodor Kocher (1841-1917) and his outstanding contributions to surgery

Theodor Kocher (1841-1917), an exceptional Swiss surgeon who described a technique for the safe removal of enlarged thyroid unraveled the true function of this endocrine gland but also made significant contributions to many other fields of surgery. Kocher was the first surgeon awarded the Nobel prize in Physiology and Medicine in 1909 for his work on the physiology, pathology, and surgery of the thyroid gland. He was professor and clinical director at Insel Hospital during 45 years. Kocher created the prominent Surgeon's School in Bern. He was the first president of the International Society of Surgery in 1903 and the founding president of the Swiss Society of Surgery in 1913.

Theodor Kocher (1841-1917), excepcional cirujano suizo que describió una técnica para la extirpación segura del agrandamiento del tiroides y desentrañó la verdadera función de esta glándula endocrina, pero también hizo importantes aportaciones a muchos otros campos de la cirugía. Kocher fue el primer cirujano galardonado con el premio Nobel de Fisiología y Medicina en 1909 por sus trabajos sobre la fisiología, patología y cirugía de la glándula tiroides. Fue profesor y director clínico del Hospital Insel durante 45 años. Kocher creó la destacada Escuela de Cirujanos de Berna. Fue el primer presidente de la Sociedad Internacional de Cirugía en 1903 y el presidente fundador de la Sociedad Suiza de Cirugía en 1913.

Tiroidectomía transoral endoscópica con abordaje vestibular (TOETVA): una nueva opción para el tratamiento de pacientes pediátricos / Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA): a novel option in the treatment of pediatric patients

Introducción: La cirugía tiroidea ha aumentado en la edad pediátri-ca, y uno de los problemas luego de esta cirugía es la presencia de unacicatriz cervical, que se reportó como causa de alteración en la calidadde vida. La tiroidectomía transoral endoscópica se utiliza en pacientesadultos con buenos resultados, pero hay escasos reportes de la utilizaciónde esta técnica en pediatría. Caso clínico: Paciente femenina de 17 años con diagnóstico debocio nodular tóxico. Ante la negativa de realizarse una cirugía con-vencional por la cicatriz, se realizó lobectomía transoral endoscópica.Se detalla la técnica quirúrgica. Comentarios: Con el objetivo de prevenir alteraciones psico-so-ciales que pueden provocar las cicatrices cervicales en niños, y con losresultados publicados sobre la utilización de esta técnica en pediatría,podemos decir que la tiroidectomía transoral endoscópica puede ser unaalternativa a la tiroidectomía convencional en pacientes adecuadamenteseleccionados que deseen evitar una cicatriz cervical.(AU)

Introduction: Thyroid surgery has increased in the pediatric population. One of the main issues following this surgery is the presence of aneck scar, which has been reported to have an impact on quality of life. Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy is used in adult patients with goodresults, but there are few reports on the use of this technique in pediatrics.Clinical case: 17-year-old female patient diagnosed with toxic nodular goiter. As a result of the patient’s refusal to undergo conventionalsurgery due to the scar, transoral endoscopic lobectomy was carried out.The surgical technique used will be described. Discussion: In order to prevent the psychological and social impactof neck scars in children, and given the results published on the use ofthis technique in pediatrics, transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy standsas an alternative to conventional thyroidectomy in adequately selectedpatients eager to avoid neck scars.(AU)

Experiencia en cirugía de tiroides en el Hospital Oncológico Conrado Benítez de Santiago de Cuba

Introducción: Los nódulos de tiroides son un problema clínico común. La tiroidectomía es una de las técnicas más realizadas en los servicios de cabeza y cuello y constituye un tratamiento con intención curativa en el cáncer de tiroides y afecciones benignas como el bocio nodular y el adenoma. Objetivo: Describir la experiencia en cirugía de tiroides del servicio de cabeza y cuello en el Hospital Oncológico Conrado Benítez. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, longitudinal y prospectivo de los pacientes que recibieron algún tratamiento quirúrgico por enfermedad tiroidea en el período comprendido entre el 1 de septiembre de 2017 y el 31 de agosto de 2022. Resultados: El 87 % de los pacientes eran mujeres, con una edad media de 47,1 años. A todos se les realizó ecografía y biopsia por aspiración con aguja fina con una estrecha concordancia con el diagnóstico definitivo. Predominó el carcinoma papilar (39,5 %), la tiroidectomía total como técnica más empleada (86,5 %) y el 94,6 % de los pacientes no tuvo complicaciones. La lesión recurrencial solo estuvo presente en el 1,1 % de los casos. Conclusiones: La experiencia en tiroidectomía en el Hospital Oncológico Conrado Benítez es buena, con una concordancia entre medios diagnósticos y biopsia definitiva, tiempo quirúrgico adecuado y pocas complicaciones.

Introduction: Thyroid nodules are a common clinical problem. Thyroidectomy is one of the most performed techniques in head and neck surgery services, as well a treatment with curative intent for thyroid cancer and benign conditions such as nodular goiter and adenoma. Objective: To describe the experience in thyroid surgery at the head and neck surgery service from Hospital Oncológico Conrado Benítez. Methods: A descriptive, longitudinal and prospective study was carried out with patients who received any surgical treatment for thyroid disease in the period from September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2022. Results: 87 % of patients were female, with a mean age of 47.1 years. All of them underwent ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration biopsy, presenting a close concordance with their definitive diagnosis. Papillary carcinoma predominated (39.5 %), total thyroidectomy was the most commonly used technique (86.5 %) and 94.6 % of patients had no complications. Any recurrent lesion was present in only 1.1 % of cases. Conclusions: The thyroidectomy experience at Hospital Oncológico Conrado Benítez is good, based on the concordance between diagnostic means and definitive biopsy, as well as adequate surgical time and few complications.

Sintomas vocais, ansiedade e depressão pré e pós-tireoidectomia / Vocal symptoms, anxiety and depression pre and post thyroidectomy / Síntomas vocales, ansiedad y depresión pre y post tiroidectomía

Introdução: Alterações na tireoide e a tireoidectomia podem levar à sintomatologia vocal e emocional.Objetivo: Correlacionar sintomas vocais e traços de ansiedade e depressão pré e pós-tireoidectomia. Métodos: Estudo observacional, longitudinal. Participaram 20 pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia, ao exame visual laríngeo e à Escala de Sintomas Vocais (ESV) e Escala Hospitalar de Ansiedade e Depressão (HADS) no pré-operatório, pós 1 semana e pós 3 meses, com média de idade de 54,5 anos, maior prevalência do sexo feminino (85%) e tireoidectomia parcial (70%). Resultados: Os pacientes autorreferiram sintomas vocais em todos os momentos, com maior frequência após uma semana e diferença significativa entre o domínio físico pré e pós 1 semana. Na HADS, observou-se maior escore total no pré-operatório e diferença significante nos três momentos, em todos os domínios, com maior diferença entre pré e pós 1 semana. Houve correlação positiva fraca entre os domínios limitação, emocional e escore total da ESV com a subescala de ansiedade pós 1 semana, entre o escore total da ESV e o escore total da HADS e correlação positiva moderada entre os domínios limitação e emocional da ESV com o escore total da HADS após uma semana. Conclusão: Pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia autopercebem sintomas vocais e traços de grau leve de ansiedade tanto no pré quanto pós 1 semana e após 3 meses de cirurgia com pior autorreferência após uma semana. Quanto maior a autorreferência de sintomas vocais, mais traços de ansiedade o paciente pode apresentar. (AU)

Introduction: Thyroid alterations and thyroidectomy can lead to vocal and emotional symptoms.Purpose: To correlate vocal symptoms and anxiety and depression traits pre and post-thyroidectomy. Methods: Observational, longitudinal study. Participants were 20 patients who underwent thyroidectomy, laryngeal visual examination and the Voice Symptom Scale (VoiSS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) preoperatively, 1 week and 3 months after, with a mean age of 54.5 years, higher prevalence of female gender (85%) and partial thyroidectomy (70%). Results: The patients self-reported vocal symptoms at all times, more frequently after one week and a significant difference between the physical domain pre and post 1 week. In HADS, there was a higher total score in the preoperative period and a significant difference in the three moments, in all domains, with a greater difference between pre and post 1 week. There was a weak positive correlation between the limitation, emotional and total score of the ESV domains with the anxiety subscale after 1 week, between the total score of the ESV and the total score of the HADS, and a moderate positive correlation between the limitation and emotional domains of the ESV with the HADS total score after one week. Conclusion: Patients undergoing thyroidectomy self-perceived vocal symptoms and mild anxiety traits both before and after 1 week and after 3 months of surgery with worse self-report after one week. The greater the self-report of vocal symptoms, the more traces of anxiety the patient may present. (AU)

Introducción: Cambios en la tiroides y tiroidectomía pueden provocar síntomas vocales y emocionales. Objetivo: Correlacionar síntomas vocales y rasgos de ansiedad y depresión antes y después de tiroidectomía. Metodos: Estudio observacional/longitudinal. Participaron 20 pacientes que se les realizó tiroidectomía, examen visual laríngeo, Escala de Síntomas Vocales (ESV) y Escala Hospitalaria de Ansiedad y Depresión (HADS) en preoperatorio, 1 semana y 3 meses después, con edad media de 54,5 años, prevalencia del género femenino (85%) y tiroidectomía parcial (70%). Resultados: Los pacientes informaron síntomas vocales en todo momento, con mayor frecuencia después de una semana y una diferencia significativa entre el dominio físico antes y después de 1 semana. En HADS, hubo mayor puntaje total en el preoperatorio y diferencia significativa en los tres momentos, con mayor diferencia entre pre y post 1 semana. Hubo una correlación positiva débil entre limitación, emocional y total de los dominios de la ESV con la subescala de ansiedad después de 1 semana, entre el total de la ESV y e total de la HADS, y una correlación positiva moderada entre la puntuación de limitación y dominios emocionales de la ESV con la puntuación total de HADS después de una semana. Conclusión: Los pacientes sometidos a tiroidectomía autopercibieron síntomas vocales y rasgos de ansiedad leve tanto antes como después de 1 semana y después de 3 meses de la cirugía con peor autoinforme después de una semana. Cuanto mayor es el autoinforme de síntomas vocales, más rastros de ansiedad puede presentar el paciente. (AU)

Evaluation of an early detection protocol, intensive treatment and control of post-surgical hypoparathyroidism in the first month after total thyroidectomy.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Hypoparathyroidism is the most common complication of total thyroidectomy and usually requires monitoring of calcaemia, whereby it is one of the factors that most contributes to hospital stay. The objective of the study is to evaluate the clinical usefulness of the application of our protocol for early detection, intensive treatment and control of hypoparathyroidism in the first month after thyroidectomy. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Retrospective observational cross-sectional study of 79 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy in whom parathormone (PTH) and calcemia determinations were performed at 6-8 h and 18-24 h post-surgery. When the PTH value was lower than inferior limit of the reference (15 pg/ml), oral treatment was started with 1000 mg of calcium and 0.25 µg of calcitriol every 8 h followed by calcemia controls. RESULTS: Twenty-six cases (32.9%) of normocalcemic hypoparathyroidism were detected in whom treatment prevented their progression to hypocalcaemia, except for 3 cases that had an episode of mild asymptomatic hypocalcaemia. There were no cases of moderate/severe hypocalcaemia and only one case of asymptomatic mild hypercalcaemia. There were no readmissions due to calcium abnormalities. No case with PTH > 15 pg/ml had hypocalcaemia. The protocol allowed a hospital stay of 24 h. The prevalence of permanent hypoparathyroidism was 5.1%. CONCLUSIONS: The application of our protocol during the first month after thyroidectomy is very useful because it avoids the appearance of moderate/severe hypocalcaemia and hypercalcaemia, allows a short hospital stay and is associated with a low prevalence of permanent hypoparathyroidism.

Rehabilitación del nervio recurrente laríngeo postiroidectomía / Recurrent laryngeal nerve rehabilitation after thyroidectomy

El carcinoma papilar tiroideo es el tipo de cáncer más común de esta glándula, y su tratamiento de elección es la tiroidectomía. Entre las complicaciones asociadas resalta la parálisis de las cuerdas vocales, la cual ocurre por una lesión directa del nervio laríngeo recurrente durante la cirugía. Se presenta una paciente de 22 años de edad con este diagnóstico, a la cual se le realizó una tiroidectomía total; en el postoperatorio inmediato la paciente comenzó con estridor laríngeo intenso que requirió una traqueotomía de urgencia. En el examen físico se constató una parálisis bilateral de las cuerdas vocales y se decidió comenzar un tratamiento de rehabilitación del nervio recurrente laríngeo con laserterapia y HIVAMAT-200 como modalidades combinadas. Los resultados alcanzados con la fisioterapia fueron satisfactorios y la paciente se reintegró rápidamente a su ámbito familiar, escolar y social.

Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common type of cancer of this gland, and its treatment of choice is thyroidectomy. Vocal cord paralysis stands out among the associated complications, in which a direct injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve occurs during surgery. We present a 22-year-old female patient with this diagnosis, who underwent a total thyroidectomy; in the immediate postoperative period the patient began with intense laryngeal stridor requiring an emergency tracheotomy. Physical examination revealed bilateral vocal cord paralysis and it was decided to begin rehabilitation treatment of the recurrent laryngeal nerve with laser therapy and HIVAMAT-200 as combined modalities. The results achieved with physiotherapy were satisfactory and the patient was quickly reintegrated into her family, school and social environment.

Características clínicas, epidemiológicas y quirúrgicas de pacientes con afecciones nodulares tiroideas / Clinical, Epidemiological and Surgical Characteristics of Patients with Thyroid Nodular Conditions

Introducción: En las últimas décadas la incidencia del cáncer tiroideo en el curso de la enfermedad nodular se ha incrementado debido a las novedosas técnicas de diagnóstico; sin embargo, la tasa de mortalidad se ha mantenido muy baja. Objetivo: Evaluar las características clínicas, epidemiológicas y quirúrgicas de pacientes con afecciones nodulares tiroideas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo observacional de cohorte prospectivo, longitudinal con los pacientes operados de afecciones tiroideas durante el período comprendido entre enero del 2008 y diciembre del 2018. El universo y la muestra quedaron constituidos por 467 pacientes que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Resultados: Predominaron el sexo femenino (89,5 por ciento) y el grupo etario de 45-60 años (29,5 por ciento). Asociaron comorbilidades 338 pacientes y algún factor de riesgo de malignidad (6,2 por ciento). Un total de 174 pacientes manifestaron síntomas y 264 mostraron algún signo. Predominaron los reportes ecográficos (TI-RADS) y citológicos (Bethesda) tipo II (54,3 por ciento) y (55,5 por ciento), respectivamente. La hemitiroidectomía fue el procedimiento más realizado (59,9 por ciento) y la disfonía la complicación más encontrada (1,9 por ciento). Conclusiones: El diagnóstico oportuno del cáncer tiroideo en el curso de una enfermedad nodular contribuye a individualizar todas las decisiones terapéuticas atendiendo a las características de cada paciente y sus circunstancias(AU)

Introduction: In recent decades, the incidence rates of thyroid cancer in the course of nodular disease has increased due to novel diagnostic techniques; however, the mortality rate has remained very low. Objective: To evaluate the clinical, epidemiological and surgical characteristics of patients with nodular thyroid disease. Methods: A descriptive, observational, of prospective cohort, longitudinal and observational study was conducted with patients operated on for thyroid disorders during the period from January 2008 to December 2018. The study universe and sample consisted of 467 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Results: The female sex (89.5 percent) and the age group 45-60 years (29.5 percent) predominated. Comorbidities were present in 338 patients, as well as some risk factor for malignancy in 6.2 percent. A total of 174 patients manifested symptoms and 264 showed some sign. There was a predominance of echography (TI-RADS) and cytology (Bethesda) type II reports, accounting for 54.3 percent and 55.5 percent, respectively. Hemithyroidectomy was the most performed procedure (59.9 percent), while dysphonia was the most encountered complication (1.9 percent). Conclusions: Timely diagnosis of thyroid cancer in the course of nodular disease contributes to individualizing all therapeutic decisions considering the characteristics of each patient and their circumstances(AU)

Body composition changes following total thyroidectomy: A one-year follow-up study.

INTRODUCTION: Thyroid hormones play an important role in body weight regulation. In this study, we investigated which body composition parameters cause a change in body weight after total thyroidectomy. MATERIALS AND METHOD: We performed a retrospective cohort study of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy. Demographics, thyroid function tests, indications for surgery, final pathology, and postoperative thyroid status were collected. Body composition analyses measured by the bioelectrical impedance analysis method were recorded at two-time points, 12 months apart. RESULTS: Forty-four patients were included in the study with a mean age of 51.6 years. There were statistically significant increases in weight (p=0.049), body mass index (p=0.021), and fat mass (p=0.001) over time. While 12 patients (27.3%) lost or maintained weight, 32 patients (72.7%) gained weight. There was no significant difference in age, sex, preoperative thyroid function tests, postoperative thyroid status, or pathology between those who gained weight and those who did not. Although changes in all body composition parameters were higher in males than in females, these differences were not significant overall. Multivariable regression analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between increase in fat mass and baseline free-T3 (p=0.041) and found that lower baseline percent body fat was a significant factor for greater fat mass gain (p=0.016). However, no predictors of change in weight were identified. CONCLUSION: We conclude that total thyroidectomy results in a significant change in body weight and fat mass. Higher free-T3 and lower percent body fat at baseline were significant factors of fat mass gain.

Hemitiroidectomía vía abordaje axilo-mamario unilateral (UABA) con insuflación de gas vs. convencional abierta: estudio prospectivo comparativo / Unilateral axilo-breast approach (UABA) with gas insufflation versus open conventional hemithyroidectomy: A prospective comparative study

Antecedentes: El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar con el abordaje abierto convencional, los resultados quirúrgicos y estéticos de la tiroidectomía endoscópica por abordaje axilo-mamario unilateral (UABA) con insuflación de gas en pacientes con nódulo tiroideo unilateral. Métodos: Entre agosto de 2017 y agosto de 2020, se llevó a cabo un estudio prospectivo comparativo de cohortes en pacientes propuestos para hemitiroidectomía. Los pacientes se asignaron a un tipo de abordaje (abierto o endoscópico) de manera sucesiva. Los resultados quirúrgicos y la satisfacción estética al alta hospitalaria y durante el seguimiento a 12 meses fueron evaluados y comparados entre ambos grupos. Resultados: Un total de 200 pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio: 100 se asignaron al abordaje abierto y 100 al endoscópico. Las características demográficas de los pacientes fueron similares entre ambos grupos. El tiempo operatorio total fue mayor en el abordaje endoscópico, debido al tiempo necesario para la disección subcutánea (el tiempo de hemitiroidectomía fue similar en ambos grupos). No hubo diferencia significativa en la frecuencia de complicaciones mayores. El tiempo de estancia hospitalaria fue mayor (por un día) en el grupo endoscópico. La satisfacción estética de los pacientes fue significativamente mayor en el grupo endoscópico que en el abierto (p<0,001), al alta hospitalaria y al seguimiento a 12 meses. Conclusión: El UABA con insuflación de gas para la hemitiroidectomía representa una opción terapéutica segura y eficaz para el tratamiento de patologías benignas tiroideas unilaterales. (AU)

Background: The objective of this study was to compare with the conventional open approach, the surgical and aesthetic results of endoscopic thyroidectomy via unilateral axillo-breast approach (UABA) with gas insufflation in patients with a unilateral thyroid nodule. Methods: Between August 2017 and August 2020, a prospective comparative cohort study was carried out in patients proposed for hemithyroidectomy. The patients were assigned to one type of approach (Open or Endoscopic) in a successive manner. Surgical results and aesthetic satisfaction at hospital discharge and during the 12-month follow-up were evaluated and compared between both groups. Results: A total of 200 patients were included in the study: 100 for the Open approach and 100 for the Endoscopic. The baseline patient characteristics were similar between both groups. Total operative time was longer in the Endoscopic approach, due to the time required for subcutaneous dissection (the hemithyroidectomy time was similar in both groups). There was no significant difference in the frequency of major complications. The length of hospital stay was longer (for 1 day) in the Endoscopic group. The aesthetic satisfaction of the patients was significantly higher in the Endoscopic than in the Open group (p<0.001), at hospital discharge and at 12-month follow-up. Conclusion: UABA with gas insufflation for hemithyroidectomy represents a safe and effective therapeutic option for the treatment of unilateral benign thyroid pathologies. (AU)

Tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral por vía vestibular: resultados de los 53 primeros casos / Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach: Results after 53 first cases

Introducción: La tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral por vía vestibular permite el acceso al tiroides sin cicatrices visibles y con el mejor resultado cosmético posible. Métodos: Estudio observacional prospectivo de 53 pacientes sometidos a tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral desde julio de 2017 hasta junio de 2021. Resultados: Cincuenta y dos casos (98,1%) fueron mujeres con una mediana de edad de 44 años. El nódulo tiroideo fue la indicación quirúrgica más frecuente (73,6%). Se realizaron 42 lobectomías,11 tiroidectomías totales y en 4 casos se asoció vaciamiento ganglionar del compartimento central izquierdo. La mediana de tiempo para la colocación de trócares fue de 14min, y para la lobectomía, la tiroidectomía total y el vaciamiento ganglionar del compartimento central izquierdo, de 80, 140 y 30min, respectivamente. La mediana de estancia hospitalaria fue de 2 días. Cuatro pacientes presentaron disfonía (7,5%), pero la laringoscopia solo confirmó lesión del recurrente en 2 casos, una de ellas permanente (1,6%). En los pacientes con tiroidectomía total la frecuencia de hipoparatiroidismo transitorio fue del 18,2% y el permanente de 0%. Dentro de las complicaciones asociadas al abordaje, en todos los pacientes se presentó anestesia de la región mentoniana transitoria y de intensidad variable. Conclusiones: La cirugía transoral es un abordaje de aplicación reciente en nuestra unidad. Los resultados en nuestros primeros pacientes muestran que es un abordaje eficaz y seguro cuando se realiza en pacientes bien seleccionados, con el mejor resultado cosmético y con complicaciones nuevas, asociadas al abordaje, transitorias en nuestra serie. (AU)

Introduction: Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy through vestibular approach allows access to the thyroid with the best cosmetic results as there are no visible scars. Methods: Here we present a prospective observational study of 53 patients which underwent transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy from July 2017 to June 2021. Results: Fifty-two cases (98.1%) were women (median age 44 years old). Thyroid nodule was the main surgical indication accounting 73.6% of cases. We performed 42 lobectomies and 11 total thyroidectomies; 4 left central neck dissection were also associated. The median surgical time for port placement was 14min, and for lobectomy, total thyroidectomy and left central neck dissection were 80, 140 and 30min, respectively. The median of hospital stay was 2 days. Dysphonia was present in 4 patients (7.5%); however, laryngoscopy only confirmed laryngeal nerve impairment in 2 cases, one of them classified as permanent (1.6%). In those patients that underwent total thyroidectomy, the rate of transient hypoparathyroidism was 18.2% whereas permanent was 0%. Regarding complications associated to the new approach, transient chin numbness appeared in all patients with a variable degree of intensity. Conclusions: Transoral surgery is a recent approach in our unit. Our results, based on the first 53 patients, show that it is a safe and effective approach when performed in appropriately selected patients offering the best cosmetic result. Besides, new complications associated to the approach has been shown to be transient. (AU)

Tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral por vía vestibular: resultados de los 53 primeros casos / Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach: Results after 53 first cases

Introducción: La tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral por vía vestibular permite el acceso al tiroides sin cicatrices visibles y con el mejor resultado cosmético posible. Métodos: Estudio observacional prospectivo de 53 pacientes sometidos a tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral desde julio de 2017 hasta junio de 2021. Resultados: Cincuenta y dos casos (98,1%) fueron mujeres con una mediana de edad de 44 años. El nódulo tiroideo fue la indicación quirúrgica más frecuente (73,6%). Se realizaron 42 lobectomías,11 tiroidectomías totales y en 4 casos se asoció vaciamiento ganglionar del compartimento central izquierdo. La mediana de tiempo para la colocación de trócares fue de 14min, y para la lobectomía, la tiroidectomía total y el vaciamiento ganglionar del compartimento central izquierdo, de 80, 140 y 30min, respectivamente. La mediana de estancia hospitalaria fue de 2 días. Cuatro pacientes presentaron disfonía (7,5%), pero la laringoscopia solo confirmó lesión del recurrente en 2 casos, una de ellas permanente (1,6%). En los pacientes con tiroidectomía total la frecuencia de hipoparatiroidismo transitorio fue del 18,2% y el permanente de 0%. Dentro de las complicaciones asociadas al abordaje, en todos los pacientes se presentó anestesia de la región mentoniana transitoria y de intensidad variable. Conclusiones: La cirugía transoral es un abordaje de aplicación reciente en nuestra unidad. Los resultados en nuestros primeros pacientes muestran que es un abordaje eficaz y seguro cuando se realiza en pacientes bien seleccionados, con el mejor resultado cosmético y con complicaciones nuevas, asociadas al abordaje, transitorias en nuestra serie. (AU)

Introduction: Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy through vestibular approach allows access to the thyroid with the best cosmetic results as there are no visible scars. Methods: Here we present a prospective observational study of 53 patients which underwent transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy from July 2017 to June 2021. Results: Fifty-two cases (98.1%) were women (median age 44 years old). Thyroid nodule was the main surgical indication accounting 73.6% of cases. We performed 42 lobectomies and 11 total thyroidectomies; 4 left central neck dissection were also associated. The median surgical time for port placement was 14min, and for lobectomy, total thyroidectomy and left central neck dissection were 80, 140 and 30min, respectively. The median of hospital stay was 2 days. Dysphonia was present in 4 patients (7.5%); however, laryngoscopy only confirmed laryngeal nerve impairment in 2 cases, one of them classified as permanent (1.6%). In those patients that underwent total thyroidectomy, the rate of transient hypoparathyroidism was 18.2% whereas permanent was 0%. Regarding complications associated to the new approach, transient chin numbness appeared in all patients with a variable degree of intensity. Conclusions: Transoral surgery is a recent approach in our unit. Our results, based on the first 53 patients, show that it is a safe and effective approach when performed in appropriately selected patients offering the best cosmetic result. Besides, new complications associated to the approach has been shown to be transient. (AU)

Unilateral axilo-breast approach (UABA) with gas insufflation versus open conventional hemithyroidectomy: A prospective comparative study.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to compare with the conventional open approach, the surgical and aesthetic results of endoscopic thyroidectomy via unilateral axillo-breast approach (UABA) with gas insufflation in patients with a unilateral thyroid nodule. METHODS: Between August 2017 and August 2020, a prospective comparative cohort study was carried out in patients proposed for hemithyroidectomy. The patients were assigned to one type of approach (Open or Endoscopic) in a successive manner. Surgical results and aesthetic satisfaction at hospital discharge and during the 12-month follow-up were evaluated and compared between both groups. RESULTS: A total of 200 patients were included in the study: 100 for the Open approach and 100 for the Endoscopic. The baseline patient characteristics were similar between both groups. Total operative time was longer in the Endoscopic approach, due to the time required for subcutaneous dissection (the hemithyroidectomy time was similar in both groups). There was no significant difference in the frequency of major complications. The length of hospital stay was longer (for 1 day) in the Endoscopic group. The aesthetic satisfaction of the patients was significantly higher in the Endoscopic than in the Open group (p < 0.001), at hospital discharge and at 12-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: UABA with gas insufflation for hemithyroidectomy represents a safe and effective therapeutic option for the treatment of unilateral benign thyroid pathologies.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach: Results after 53 first cases.

INTRODUCTION: Trans Oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy through Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) allows access to the thyroid with the best cosmetic results as there are no visible scars. METHODS: Here we present a prospective observational study of 53 patients which underwent TOETVA from July 2017 to June 2021. RESULTS: Fifty-two cases (98.1%) cases were women (median age 44 years old). Thyroid nodule was the main surgical indication accounting 73.6% of cases. We performed 42 lobectomies and 11 total thyroidectomies; 4 left Central Neck Dissection (CND) were also associated. The median surgical time for port placement was 14 min and for lobectomy, total thyroidectomy and left CND were 80, 140 and 30 min, respectively. The median of hospital stay was 2 days. Dysphonia was present in 4 patients; however, laryngoscopy only confirmed laryngeal nerve impairment in 2 cases, one of them classified as permanent (1.6%). In those patients that underwent total thyroidectomy, the rate of transient hypoparathyroidism was 18.2% whereas permanent was 0%. Regarding complications associated to the new approach, transient chin numbness appeared in all patients with a variable degree of intensity. CONCLUSTIONS: Transoral surgery is a recent approach in our Unit. Our results, based on the first 53 patients, show that it is a safe and effective approach when performed in appropriately selected patients offering the best cosmetic result. Besides, new complications associated to the approach has been shown to be transient.

Libro "Complicaciones de la cirugía tiroidea": texto útil para la docencia en Cuba / Book "Complications after thyroid surgery": useful text to be used for teaching in Cuba

Fundamento: la tiroidectomía tiene complicaciones reportadas hasta en un 25 % de los operados, las que pueden dejar secuelas invalidantes. Objetivo: mostrar los fundamentos teóricos del libro "Complicaciones de la cirugía tiroidea" como texto de aprendizaje para la superación profesional y la prevención de las complicaciones en los procesos quirúrgicos. Métodos: se realizó una investigación con enfoque cualitativo en la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Holguín, entre los años 2018-2020. Se emplearon métodos del nivel teórico para la fundamentación teórica; y empíricos: el análisis documental para verificar los nexos y relaciones que se ofrecen en los referentes teóricos relacionados con las características que debe poseer un libro de texto como medio de enseñanza en el proceso docente educativo, su importancia, ventajas y fundamentos. Se utilizó el criterio de expertos para valorar su pertinencia, factibilidad y estructura metodológica. Resultados: se presenta un libro diseñado como recurso del aprendizaje para la superación profesional; contiene las particularidades del contenido que se desea enseñar, y lo que los médicos necesitan conocer para la prevención de las complicaciones en el operado de tiroides. Está estructurado en trece capítulos, cada uno con una breve introducción y desarrollo sobre el tema. Su significación teórica viene determinada por su contribución a la educación médica, en especial a la Cirugía General y especialidades afines. Conclusiones: se mostraron los principales fundamentos teóricos del libro "Complicaciones de la cirugía tiroidea" como medio de enseñanza para la superación profesional del médico, y se resaltaron sus principales ventajas como componente didáctico del proceso docente educativo, cuyo contenido se aplica en la prevención, diagnóstico y tratamiento de las complicaciones.

Background: thyroidectomy complications has been reported in up to 25% of those operated on it, which can leave disabling consequences. Objective: to evidence the theoretical foundations of the book "Complications after thyroid surgery" as a learning text for professional improvement and the prevention of complications in surgical processes. Methods: From 2018 to 2020 a research with a qualitative approach was carried out at the University of Medical Sciences in Holguín. Theoretical methods were used for the theoretical foundation; and empirical methods: documentary analysis to verify the links and relationships offered in the theoretical references related to the characteristics that a textbook should have as a teaching medium to be used in the educational teaching process, its importance, advantages and foundations. Expert judgment was used to assess its relevance, feasibility and methodological structure. Results: a book designed as a learning resource for professional improvement is presented; it contains the particularities of the content to be taught, and what doctors need to know to prevent complications after thyroid surgery. This book is structured in thirteen chapters, each with a brief introduction and development about the topic. Its theoretical significance is determined by its contribution to medical education, especially General Surgery and related specialties. Conclusions: the main theoretical foundations of the book "Complications after thyroid surgery" as a teaching medium for the professional improvement of physicians were shown , and its main advantages as a didactic component of the educational teaching process, whose content is applied in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of complications, were highlighted.

Risk factors for hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy.

BACKGROUND: Hypocalcemia is a common complication of total thyroidectomy; transient hypocalcemia has been reported in up to 68% of the patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chart review of all patients undergoing total thyroidectomy from 2016 to 2020. Clinical, biochemical, and pathological information was registered. We sought correlations between the different variables and the occurrence of post-operative hypocalcemia. This is a retrospective study carried out at a tertiary care teaching hospital. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to ascertain the incidence of hypocalcemia after thyroidectomy and to establish potential clinical and pathological risk factors for its development. RESULTS: Three hundred and thirty-seven patients were included in this study (78% female), with a median age of 47 years. The majority (75%) harbored thyroid neoplasms. Post-operative hypocalcemia developed in 43 patients (12.7%). On bivariate analysis, the most significant risk factor was an intraoperative injury of the parathyroid glands (OR = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.11-5.59), followed by a surgical time > 2.5 h (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.03-4.19), concomitant lymph node dissection (OR = 2.45, 95% CI = 1.2-4.9), and placement of drains (OR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.19-4.87). Only parathyroid injury remained statistically significant on multivariable analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The most significant risk factor for the development of post-operative hypocalcemia after thyroidectomy is injury of the parathyroid glands, which is usually noticed by the surgeon.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La hipocalcemia es una complicación común después de una tiroidectomía; la hipocalcemia transitoria ha sido reportada hasta en el 68% de los pacientes posoperados. MATERIALS Y MÉTODOS: Revisión de expedientes de pacientes a los cuales se les realizo una tiroidectomía total entre el 2016 y 2020. La información clínica, bioquímica y patológica fue recopilada. Se busco una correlación entre las variables y el desarrollo de hipocalcemia. Es un estudio retrospectivo en un hospital escuela de atención terciaria. OBJETIVOS: Determinar la incidencia de hipocalcemia pos-tiroidectomía y establecer posibles factores de riesgo clínicos y patológicos para desarrollarlo. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 337 pacientes en este estudio (78% mujeres), con edad media de 47 años. La mayoría (75%) presentaron neoplasias tiroideas. Cuarenta y tres pacientes desarrollaron hipocalcemia (12.7%). En el análisis bivariado el factor de riesgo mas importante fue la lesión de paratiroides (RM = 2.49, IC95% = 1.11-5.59), seguido por un tiempo quirúrgico > 2.5 horas (RM = 2.0, IC 95% = 1.03­4.19), disección linfática (RM = 2.45, IC95% = 1.2-4.9) y la colocación de drenajes (RM = 2.40, IC95% = 1.19-4.87). Únicamente la lesión de paratiroides mantuvo significancia en el análisis multivariado. CONCLUSIONES: La lesión de paratiroides es el factor de riesgo mas grande para desarrollar hipocalcemia y generalmente es identificado por el cirujano.

Valor pronóstico de la parathormona postoperatoria de 24 horas en el manejo de la hipocalcemia tras tiroidectomía total en un hospital de Valencia durante 2012-2019

Introducción: La hipocalcemia por hipoparatiroidismo es la complicación más frecuente tras tiroidectomía total. Un factor predictor importante de hipocalcemia es la parathormona postoperatoria, pero el momento en el que otorga mejores resultados predictivos aún se discute. Objetivo: El objetivo es analizar el valor pronóstico de la parathormona postoperatoria a las 24 horas como indicador de hipocalcemia, en comparación con la seriación de los niveles de calcio. Metodología: Estudio observacional retrospectivo y descriptivo de 297 pacientes intervenidos de tiroidectomía total durante ocho años. Los pacientes fueron clasificados en tres grupos de riesgo según la parathormona postoperatoria (alto, medio y bajo riesgo). Para comparar la parathormona frente al calcio postoperatorio como predictor de hipocalcemia, se obtuvieron curvas ROC y áreas debajo de la curva. Resultados: El riesgo relativo de tener hipocalcemia con parathormona ≤15 pg/mL es de 353,4 (p = 0,00). La prueba de parathormona postoperatoria (≤15 pg/mL a las 24 h) obtuvo una sensibilidad del 96,25 % para la detección de hipocalcemia, especificidad del 94,06 % y precisión global del 95,03 %. El grupo de alto riesgo (parathormona ≤15 pg/mL) concentra la mayoría de los pacientes con hipocalcemia, y abarca la totalidad de los casos permanentes. Conclusiones: La parathormona postoperatoria a las 24 horas de la tiroidectomía total es un test con un valor pronóstico considerable, capaz de predecir el riesgo de hipocalcemia postquirúrgica. Se encontró que los pacientes con parathormona >15 pg/mL pueden ser dados de alta de manera segura.

Introduction: Hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism is the most frequent complication after total thyroidectomy. An important predictive factor of hypocalcaemia is postoperative parathormone (PTH), but the optimal time for testing PTH levels is under discussion. Objectives: The objective is to analyze the prognostic value of postoperative PTH at 24 hours as an indicator of hypocalcaemia, compared to serum calcium levels. Methodology: Descriptive retrospective observational study of 297 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy over an 8-year period. The patients were classified into 3 risk groups according to postoperative parathormone (high, medium and low risk). To compare parathormone versus postoperative calcium as a predictor of hypocalcemia, ROC curves and areas under the curve (AUC) were obtained. Results: The relative risk of having hypocalcemia with parathormone ≤ 15 pg/mL is 353.4 (p = 0.00). The postoperative parathormone test (≤ 15 pg / mL at 24h) obtained a sensitivity of 96.25% for the detection of hypocalcemia, specificity of 94.06% and global precision of 95.03%. The high-risk group (parathormone ≤ 15 pg/mL) accounts for the vast majority of patients with hypocalcemia and covers all permanent cases. Conclusions: Postoperative levels 24 hours after total thyroidectomy is a test with considerable prognostic value, capable of predicting the risk of postsurgical hypocalcemia. Patients with levels over > 15 pg/mL can be safely discharged.

Linfoma primario de la tiroides

Introducción: El linfoma primario de la tiroides es una enfermedad infrecuente. El diagnóstico oportuno implica una evaluación clínica precisa, la realización de estudios de imágenes, citológicos e inmunológicos. Entre las modalidades del tratamiento están la quimioterapia, la cirugía y la radioterapia. Objetivo: Reportar el caso clínico de una paciente con linfoma primario de la tiroides como forma de presentación neoplásica en el curso de un bocio multinodular, que requirió tratamiento quirúrgico. Caso clínico: Paciente de 56 años de edad, que presentó tumor gigante del cuello, acompañado de disnea, disfagia, disfonía, signos de compresión vascular y adenopatías. La citología por aspiración con aguja fina informó bocio multinodular. Por la sospecha de malignidad, se decidió el tratamiento quirúrgico que consistió en una tiroidectomía total con linfadenectomía. El resultado histológico informó un linfoma primario de la tiroides. Evolucionó favorablemente y continúo seguimiento por oncología. Conclusiones: En este caso se presenta un paciente con una rara enfermedad, sin embargo, el conocimiento profundo de los aspectos esenciales del diagnóstico oportuno y del tratamiento personalizado, elevan la tasa de supervivencia de estos pacientes.

Introduction: Primary thyroid lymphoma is a rare disease. Early diagnosis implies a precise clinical evaluation, imaging, cytological and immunological studies. Treatment modalities include chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy. Objective: To report the clinical case of a patient with primary thyroid lymphoma as a form of neoplastic presentation in the course of a multinodular goiter that required surgical treatment. Clinical case: A 56-year-old patient presented with a giant neck tumor, accompanied by dyspnea, dysphagia, dysphonia, signs of vascular compression, and lymphadenopathy. Fine-needle aspiration cytology reported multinodular goiter. Due to the suspicion of malignancy, surgical treatment was decided, which consisted of a total thyroidectomy with lymphadenectomy. The histological result confirmed a primary thyroid lymphoma. She evolved favorably and continued follow-up by oncology. Conclusions: In this case a patient with a rare disease is presented, however, deep knowledge of the essential aspects of early diagnosis and timely treatment, increase the survival rate.