Delayed Tracheal Perforation Following Total Thyroidectomy

Delayed Tracheal Perforation After Partial Thyroidectomy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Tracheal perforation is an extremely rare and potentially dangerous complication of a partial thyroidectomy. The current case represents a unique presentation of delayed tracheal perforation following an uncomplicated thyroid isthmusectomy for tissue diagnosis of an aggressive appearing thyroid mass in the setting of high-dose steroid administration and recent intubation and self-extubation. While conservative management of tracheal perforation can sometimes be appropriate, our patient was successfully managed via primary closure and infrahyoid muscle transposition flap to cover a 5 mm right lateral tracheal wall defect. We recommend caution be exercised following thyroid surgery in the setting of intubation and high-dose steroids.

Delayed Tracheal Perforation After Thyroidectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review

Thyroidectomy is a safe procedure that is frequently performed for benign or malignant thyroid disease. Complications after thyroidectomy occur in approximately 3%-5% of patients. Tracheal perforation is a very rare post-thyroidectomy complication, and delayed tracheal perforation without intraoperative tracheal injury is even rarer; only 25 case reports have been published globally, with varied management. We present the case of a 36-year-old man presenting with dyspnea and cough 2 weeks after left thyroidectomy. A defect measuring approximately 2 cm was confirmed on the anterior wall of the trachea by computed tomography and flexible laryngoscopy. The patient's symptoms improved with conservative treatment including systemic steroids, and surgical treatment was not required. Even in the absence of unusual intraoperative events, delayed tracheal necrosis and perforation should be considered as possible postoperative complications following thyroidectomy.

Airway injury from transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach

BACKGROUND

The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is a novel technique that eliminates a cervical scar. This procedure carries unique risks, and data on outcomes are needed as more cases are performed.

METHODS

We describe two cases of airway injury during the TOETVA. A description of the procedure and management of the injuries is outlined.

RESULTS

In one case, a 3-mm injury in the thyrohyoid membrane was identified. The TOETVA was converted to an open approach due to significant inflammation in the setting of Graves' and the repair was performed while open. In the second case, a fracture occurred from the thyroid notch to Broyle's ligament without avulsion. A primary repair was endoscopically performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Airway injury is a possible complication of both open thyroidectomy and TOETVA. For TOETVA, trauma is most likely to occur in the midline during Hegar dilation and trocar placement through the central incision.