Transoral Vestibular Thyroidectomy: Current State of Affairs and Considerations for the Future

Transoral endoscopic thyroid lobectomy and ipsilateral central neck lymph node dissection vestibular approach: analysis of the learning curve and clinical outcomes evaluation

Purpose

The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is distinguished by its ability to leave no visible scars on the body's surface. Currently, there is still a lack of single-center large sample size analysis on the learning curve of TOETVA, especially for the treatment of thyroid cancer. This study aims to fill this void by presenting a comprehensive analysis of the learning curve and assessing the procedure's feasibility in managing thyroid cancer.

Methods

Between June 2020 and June 2023, a retrospective analysis was conducted on 195 patients who had undergone the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. We employed the cumulative sum method (CUSUM) to delineate the learning curve of TOETVA. Additionally, clinical parameters across different stages of the learning process were meticulously compared and analyzed.

Results

All patients successfully completed endoscopic surgery without conversion to open surgery. Utilizing the CUSUM algorithm, two distinct learning phases were delineated: the exploration phase, comprising 58 cases, and the maturation phase, encompassing 137 cases. Analysis revealed that the maturation phase demonstrated significantly reduced operative times (189.7 ± 237.27 vs. 138.15 ± 26.62 minutes, p<0.001), decreased blood loss (15.49 ± 15.05 vs. 9.67 ± 4.12 ml, p=0.005), and a lower incidence of complications (7 vs. 4, p=0.028) when compared to the exploration phase. Additionally, in the maturation phase, we achieved successful surgical outcomes in a subset of obese patients and those with nodular goiter.

Conclusion

TOETVA has been demonstrated to be safe and feasible, with the capability to effectively address complex cases once the learning curve has been surmounted.

Natural orifice trans-oral, trans-vestibular endoscopic thyroidectomy: Surgical steps and technique

ABSTRACT

Natural orifice scarless cosmetic surgeries are becoming a reality with increasing experience of advanced laparoscopic surgeries and availability of modern energy sources. Many techniques of minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy through cervical and extra-cervical routes such as chest wall, trans-axillary, sub-mental, post-auricular and trans-luminal approach have been attempted. However, trans-oral trans-vestibular endoscopic thyroidectomy with its excellent cosmetic effect has become the more popular option among the surgical community with advantages such as decreased hospital stay and minimal complications. In this case report, we describe natural orifice trans-oral, trans-vestibular endoscopic thyroidectomy approach (NO-TOTVET) and add to literature the technique in which NO-TOTVET can be utilised, thus adding to the repertoire of the operating surgeon.

Natural Orifice Trans-oral, Trans-vestibular Endoscopic Thyroidectomy (NO-TOTVET): a Case Series

Natural orifice scarless cosmetic surgeries are becoming a reality with the increasing experience of advanced laparoscopic surgeries and the availability of modern energy sources. Many techniques of minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy through cervical and extra-cervical routes such as chest wall, trans axillary, submental, post-auricular, and trans-luminal approach have been attempted. However, trans-oral trans-vestibular endoscopic thyroidectomy with its excellent cosmetic effect and minimal side effects has become the more popular option among the surgical community. In this case series, we present 11 patients operated via natural orifice trans-oral, trans-vestibular endoscopic thyroidectomy approach (NO-TOTVET) by the same surgical team. From November 2022 to July 2023, NO-TOTVET was performed for 11 consecutive patients presenting with goiter to the Department of General Surgery, Command Hospital Eastern Command Kolkata. Surgery was performed using a 10-mm midline port inserted opposite incisors and two 5-mm ports inserted opposite to the left and right canine in the gingivo-buccal sulcus. NO-TOTVET was completed successfully through these ports without converting to open thyroidectomy. The demographic data and surgical outcomes of the patients were retrospectively analyzed. Eleven patients with a mean age of 37.5 ± 10.4 years were incorporated into this study. Three patients presented with papillary thyroid micro-carcinomas, and eight presented with benign nodules. A total of six hemithyroidectomies and five near-total thyroidectomies were done. All surgeries were performed successfully without conversion to open thyroidectomy. The mean operating time was 138.8 ± 33.2 min, and the average hospital stay was 1.5 days. Two patients developed seroma, and one patient had cutaneous burns. Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis was observed in one patient. There was no evidence of postoperative bleeding, infection, tetany, or any other complications. NO-TOTVET is a safe and effective technique in the hands of a trained surgeon and is a viable alternative to open thyroidectomy. It is a true scarless surgery with advantages like decreased hospital stay and minimal complications. This case series adds to the literature the scenarios and technique in which NO-TOTVET can be utilized, thus adding to the repertoire of the operating surgeon.

Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Robotic Versus Conventional Completion Thyroidectomy: A 10-year Experience

BACKGROUND

Robotic thyroidectomy is gaining popularity, yet its role in completion thyroidectomy remains unclear. We aimed to compare robotic vs conventional completion thyroidectomy for thyroid nodules.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed patients undergoing completion thyroidectomy from 2010-2020, either by conventional open technique (n = 87) or a robotic remote-access approach (n = 44). Outcomes were compared between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 131 patients were included. The robotic cohort was younger (45.3 ± 14.0 vs 55.5 ± 14.5 years, P < 0.001) with a lower BMI (25.9 ± 5.5 vs 33.7 ± 7.8 kg/m2, P < 0.001). Operative time was longer for robotic procedures (139 min vs 99 min, P < 0.001). Hospital stay was shorter after robotic surgery, with 25% discharged the same day as compared to 5.7% in the open thyroidectomy cohort (P = 0.006). Overall rates of complication were comparable (P = 0.65). Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy occurred in 4.6% of patients, which was similar between both cohorts (P = 0.66).

CONCLUSION

Robotic completion thyroidectomy appears safe and effective, achieving shorter hospitalization than conventional open approaches despite longer operative times. Appropriate patient selection and surgical technique optimization are key. Larger prospective studies should investigate costs and long-term patient-reported outcomes.

Postoperative rehabilitation and quality of life evaluation for transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach

There are no targeted rehabilitation training modalities and assessment tools for patients after transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA). Herein, we develop a new assessment questionnaire and rehabilitation training modality and evaluate its safety and effectiveness. The THYCA-QoL-TOETVA questionnaire was compiled, and reliability and validity analyses were performed. Patients were divided into the new rehabilitation training group (N) or the conventional rehabilitation training group (C), and 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was performed after administering questionnaires to patients in both groups. Cervical range of motion (CROM) data were also measured and collected for statistical analysis. The questionnaire used in this study showed good expert authority, coordination, internal consistency, and questionnaire reliability. A total of 476 patients were included after PSM, and the questionnaire results showed that recovery and quality of life were better in the N group than in the C group (124.55 ± 8.171 vs. 122.94 ± 8.366, p = 0.026). Analysis of cervical spine mobility showed that rehabilitation was better in the N group compared to the C group at postoperative one month (flexion: 1.762°, extension: 4.720°, left lateral bending: 3.912°, right lateral bending: 4.061°, left axial rotation: 5.180°, right axial rotation: 5.199°, p value all of these < 0.001), and at postoperative three months (flexion: 2.866°, extension: 2.904°, left lateral bending: 3.927°, right lateral bending: 3.330°, left axial rotation: 4.395°, right axial rotation: 3.992°, p value all of these < 0.001). The THYCA-QoL-TOETVA provides an appropriate and effective tool for measuring the postoperative quality of life of TOETVA patients. This new rehabilitation training can effectively alleviate the problem of limited neck movement and improve the quality of life of patients after TOETVA surgery.Trial registration: ChiCTR2300069097.

First case report of benign subcutaneous thyroid tissue implantation following transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA)

Background

Following the era of remote access thyroid surgery in the 1990s, several techniques were developed including transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA), which was invented in 2016. TOETVA has gained acceptance and proven comparable results to the conventional open thyroidectomy. Despite the potential complications that may occur as a result of remote access thyroid surgery, such as nerve, vascular, and tracheal injury, seroma, and hypoparathyroidism, there was an extremely rare late complication of a benign subcutaneous thyroid implantation, which have not been reported following TOETVA.

Case Description

A 28-year-old female was developed multiple subcutaneous nodules after undergoing right lobe TOETVA for 2 years due to a 3.1 cm benign nodular goiter. The nodules were excised via submandibular incision and the pathological results were shown as benign.

Conclusions

Thyroid tissue implantation may result from intracorporeal thyroid tissue rupture, as reported in this research. Extending the vestibular incision to 2-2.5 cm and partially cutting the specimen within the retrieval bag were options to prevent further tissue damage or spillage during specimen extraction. Meanwhile, a separate incision, such as the axillary or submandibular incision, may be required to retrieve the larger nodules. Even though there were no absolute guidelines or contraindications for patient selection in TOETVA, an awareness of tissue breakage should always be considered. The optimal size of the nodule for vestibular removal, which would minimize the risk of tissue breakage, still required additional research.

Endocrine Patients' Views on Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via Vestibular Approach (TOETVA)

TOETVA's adoption has been slow in the Western hemisphere. Our study aimed to evaluate how endocrine patients in the United States perceive the risks and benefits of TOETVA. This was a cross-sectional study where a de novo survey was sent via email to patients seen from 2018 to 2020. The survey asked how each of TOETVA's risks and benefits affect their choice between traditional thyroidectomy (TT) and TOETVA on a scale from 1 (favors TT) to 10 (favors TOETVA). Statistical significance was determined at p < 0.05. Of 422 patients (3.2% response rate), 76.0% were female, 28.9% were non-Whites, 58.3% possessing graduate/professional degrees, and 34.1% were diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Significant differences were found between groups of age, race, educational attainment, thyroid cancer diagnosis, and history of thyroid or parathyroid surgery with respect to their preference for thyroidectomy between TT and TOETVA. In multivariate analysis, attitudes towards longer operative time (estimate 0.130, 95% CI 0.026-0.235, p = 0.002), limited outcome data (estimate 0.142, 95% CI 0.029-0.254, p = 0.024), having less pain (estimate 0.108, 95% CI 0.004-0.212, p = 0.042), travel to seek care (estimate 0.166, 95% CI 0.042-0.290, p = 0.009), as well as African American race (estimate 0.714, 95% CI 0.093-1.334, p = 0.024), and history of surgery (estimate - 0.843, 95% CI - 1.364- - 0.323, p = 0.002) were independently predictive of overall preferences. TOETVA's risks and benefits may carry varying degrees of significance in patients' decision-making process, which helps tailor the discussion to choose the right procedure for patients.

TOETVA parathyroid autofluorescence detection: hANDY-i endoscopy attachment

Background

Treatment options for thyroid pathologies have expanded to include scarless and remote access methods such as the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA). Currently, no standardized methods exist for locating parathyroid glands (PGs) in patients undergoing TOETVA, which can lead to parathyroid injury and subsequent hypocalcemia. This early feasibility study describes and evaluates the hANDY-i endoscopic attachment for detecting PGs in transoral thyroidectomy.

Methods

We used a prototype parathyroid autofluorescence imager (hANDY-i) that was mounted to a 10-mm 0-degree endoscope. The device delivers a split screen view of Red-green-blue (RGB) and near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) which allows for simultaneous anatomical localization and fluorescence visualization of PGs during endoscopic thyroid dissection.

Results

One cadaveric case and two patient cases were included in this study. The endoscopic hANDY-i imaging system successfully visualized PGs during all procedures.

Conclusion

The ability to leverage parathyroid autofluorescence during TOETVA may lead to improved PG localization and preservation. Further human studies are needed to assess its effect on postoperative hypocalcemia and hypoparathyroidism.

Comparisons of different approaches and incisions of thyroid surgery and selection strategy

To date, the traditional open thyroid surgery via a low collar incision remains the standard approach for patients undergoing thyroidectomy. However, this conventional approach will inevitably leave patients a neck scar and even cause a variety of complications such as paresthesia, hypesthesia, and other uncomfortable sensations. With the progress in surgical techniques, especially in endoscopic surgery, and the increasing desire for cosmetic and functional outcomes, various new approaches for thyroidectomy have been developed to avoid or decrease side effects. Some of these alternative approaches have obvious advantages compared with traditional surgery and have already been widely used in the treatment of thyroid disease, but each has its limitations. This review aims to evaluate and compare the different approaches to thyroidectomy to help surgeons make the proper treatment strategy for different individuals.

Transoral thyroid and parathyroid surgery in Brazil: where are we?

INTRODUCTION

thyroid surgery through the transoral vestibular approach is a reality in many countries. While several competing remote access techniques have been developed in the last 20 years, many were not reproducible. Transoral Endoscopic Neck Surgery (TNS) has been shown to be reproducible in different centers around the world, and approximately five years after its description it has been adopted relatively quickly for various reasons. To date, there are at least 7 Brazilian studies published, including a series of more than 400 cases. The aim of this work is to study the progression of Transoral Neck Surgery in Brazil and describe the profile of surgeons involved in this new approach.

METHODS

this is a retrospective study with descriptive statistics. A REDCap based survey about transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA/TOEPVA) was done with 66 Brazilian surgeons regarding surgeon profile, numbers of cases performed by geographic region, what kind of training was necessary prior to the first case and behavior of the surgeon proposing these new approaches.

RESULTS

response rate of this survey was 53%. To date, 1275 TOETVA/TOEPVA cases had been performed in Brazil, 1229 thyroidectomies (96.4%), 42 parathyroidectomies (3.3%) and 4 combined procedures (0.3%). Most of the cases were done in the southeast region (821, 64.4%), 538 (42.2%) cases in the State of São Paulo and 283 (22.2%) cases in the State of Rio de Janeiro.

CONCLUSIONS

TOETVA is becoming popular in Brazil. Younger surgeons, especially those between 30 and 50 years old were more likely to adopt this approach.

Scarless Surgery: Clinical Indications for Transoral Endocrine Surgery and Implications for Pathologists

Transoral endocrine surgery (TES) is a scarless approach to thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy for well-selected patients. Criteria for the TES approach to thyroidectomy include thyroid diameter less than or equal to 10 cm, benign nodule less than or equal to 6 cm, or confirmed or suspected malignant nodule less than or equal to 2 cm. Although fragmentation of surgical specimens has been reported in TES, additional studies are needed to evaluate the implications of TES on pathologic examination.

Transoral thyroid surgery vestibular approach

Objectives

Transoral thyroid surgery vestibular approach (TOETVA) is a novel and feasible surgical technique that allows for cervical surgery without visible incisions. TOETVA represents a new frontier in endocrine surgery since aesthetic results play a more and more decisive role in elective surgery. However, acceptance is different around the world with widespread prevalence in Asian countries and some high-volume centres in the US. While inclusion criteria for TOETVA are limited regarding size and volume a combination with other extracervical techniques like the retroauricular endoscopic cephalic access thyroid surgery (EndoCATS) approach or transaxillary access is an option.

Methods

TOETVA is carried out through a three-port technique placed at the oral vestibule. Originally one 10-mm port for a 30° endoscope and two additional 5-mm ports for dissecting and coagulating instruments are used. Alternatively, one 5-mm and one or two 3 mm ports can be used. CO2 insufflation pressure is set at 6 mmHg. An additional device to optimize gas outflow for optimum view might be helpful. An anterior cervical subplatysmal space is created by hydrodissection from the oral vestibule to the sternal notch, laterally to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Conventional endoscopic instruments are used. Combination of TOETVA with a modified retroauricular access includes insertion of a 10-12 mm trocar placed subcutaneously via a skin incision on the scalp, behind the ear by blunt dissection.

Results

Since Anuwong published the first case series of 60 patients who underwent scarless thyroidectomy via the lower vestibule of the mouth with excellent results in 2016 almost 1,000 cases are reported in literature to date with comparable results especially regarding traditional complications. In contrast to other extracervical approaches, areolar or axillary for example, the transoral access route is short and the dissection planes are rather like transcervical surgery. Surgical indications and contraindications have been modified since its first description and are partly institution specific to date. To amend indications combination with other extracervical techniques is an option. In addition, patients must carefully be selected for and surgeons` candidacy is of utmost importance in transoral surgery.

Conclusions

Transoral surgery will likely continue to gain attraction as surgeons become more experienced with the technique. With increased operative use and surgeon experience the gap in conventional outcomes between transoral surgery and the transcervical approach will narrow, with both operative time and the incidence of specific complications diminishing. Experience in thyroid and endoscopic surgery is required to achieve excellent results with low complication rates. However, the new transoral technique is related to novel complications that must be evaluated.

[Effectiveness of transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery for lymph node dissection in the central region of thyroid cancer]

Objective:To investigate the effect of transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery in the central lymph node dissection of thyroid cancer. Methods:Twenty patients underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy via oral vestibular approach （TOETVA group） and 20 gender and age matched patients underwent conventional open thyroidectomy were selected in this study. The clinical data, number of lymph node dissection and postoperative complications of the two groups were collected and analyzed. SPSS 24.0 statistical software was used for data analysis. Results:There was no significant differences in age, BMI, tumor size or the number of Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients between the TOETVA group and the open group（P>0.05）. The operation time（[117.30±10.54]min） and postoperative drainage volume（[146.05±30.66]mL） in the TOETVA group were significantly higher than those in the open group（[59.05±6.40]min, [77.90±22.18]mL）, P<0.001. The pain in the open group 24 h after surgery was more severe than that in the TOETVA group（P<0.05）. The total number of central lymph nodes, the number of pre-laryngeal lymph nodes and the number of pre-tracheal lymph nodes cleared by the two groups were similar, and the number of final positive lymph nodes had no significant difference. However, the number of paratracheal lymph nodes removed in the TOETVA group was more（7.8±4.2） nodes than that in the open group（6.4±3.9） nodes, P<0.05. There was no significant difference in postoperative complications between the two groups. The scores of cosmetic evaluation and rating of cicatrices in the TOETVA group six months after surgery were（0.77±0.58） significantly lower than those in the open group（4.30±1.54）, P<0.001. Conclusion:In central lymph node dissection, the efficiency of TOETVA is similar to that of traditional open thyroid surgery. For special anatomical regions, endoscopic surgery is more efficient. At the same time, TOETVA does not increase the incidence of related complications, and has good cosmetic effect.

OUP accepted manuscript

BACKGROUND

The IDEAL Framework is a scheme for safe implementation and assessment of surgical innovation. The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is a new innovation in thyroid surgery that eliminates the need for a cervical incision. Despite considerable interest and adoption worldwide, significant scepticism remains regarding the outcomes and cost-effectiveness for healthcare systems. The aim of this narrative review was to appraise the available literature and examine whether TOETVA has progressed in line with the IDEAL Framework.

METHODS

A literature review of PubMed with a focus on historical and landmark studies was undertaken to classify the evidence according to the different stages of the IDEAL Framework.

RESULTS

Several different transoral approaches were developed by a small of number of surgeon-innovators on animals and cadavers, and subsequently in first-in-human studies. The trivestibular approach emerged as the safest technique, with further refinements of this technique culminating in TOETVA. The basic steps and indications for this technique have been standardized and it is now being replicated by early adopters in many centres worldwide. The development of TOETVA has closely aligned with the IDEAL Framework, and is currently at stage 2B (Exploration).

CONCLUSION

There is need for multi-institutional collaborations and international registry studies to plan high-quality randomized trials comparing TOETVA with other remote-access approaches and collect long-term follow-up data. In countries where TOETVA has yet to be adopted, the IDEAL Framework will be a useful roadmap for government regulators and professional societies to evaluate, regulate, and provide best practice recommendations for the adoption of this technique.

Patient Eligibility for Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach in an Endemic Region

Objective

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is a scarless method that enables thyroidectomyusing natural orifice of the body. The opinion which is even common among TOETVA performing surgeons is that this surgery involves a small percentage of thyroidectomy applied patients. In this study, based on the currently accepted exclusion criteria, we aimed to determine what percentage of patients, who underwent thyroidectomy in an endemic area are actually suitable for TOETVA.

Methods

Between January 2017 and December 2019, 1197 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for thyroid pathology in our clinic were analyzed retrospectively. Pre-operative evaluations were made according to the current exclusion criteria and as a result, patients with no previous neck surgery, no history of radiotherapy, no retrosternal thyroid extension, and none lymph node dissection operation been made and whose thyroid gland diameter is <10 cm and gland volume is not more than 45 ml, malignant nodule diameter is <2 cm, and benign nodule diameter is <4 cm are involved to this study by being considered appropriate for TOETVA procedure.

Results

According to the criteria, 513 patients (42.8%) were found suitable for TOETVA. A total of 421 (82%) of these patients were female and 92 (18%) were male. The mean age was 46.2±13.2. A total of 192 (37%) of these patients were operated due to the benign reasons, and 321 (63%) of these patients operated due to the malignancy or suspicion of malignancy. Average nodule size was 1.9 cm, and the average thyroid volume was 23.8 ml among benign patients. Whereas among malignant patients, the average nodule size was 1.7 cm and the average thyroid volume was 21.8 ml. A total of 462 (90.1%) of the patients were applied to the total thyroidectomy and 51 (9.9%) of the patients were applied to the hemithyroidectomy. In the same period, 29 patients operated through TOETVA and 4 patients operated through bilateral axillary breast approach thyroidectomy. When the final pathology, results of the patients were examined, papillary thyroid carcinoma was seen in 301 (58.7%) patients, benign pathologies were seen in 192 (37.4%) patients, and 20 (3.9%) patients were diagnosed with other pathologies (follicular thyroid carcinoma, poorly differentiated carcinoma and Hürthle cell neoplasia, etc.).

Conclusion

Although "patient willingness" factor could not be included in the study, TOETVA eligible patient repository is wider contrary to popular belief. In our humble opinion, TOETVA method is going to pursue its spread and become a part of the routine surgical training session due to its effectiveness in terms of credibility in today's world where cosmetic concerns gradually gain prominence.

Novel Trocars and Suspension System Application in Gasless Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach Oral Endoscopic Surgery

In the current study, we reported our initial experience of gasless transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) by novel trocars and a suspension system. Between February 2019 to September 2020, thyroid cancer patients with indicated central lymph node metastasis by imaging examination who had received gasless TOETVA by our designed trocars and suspension system in The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China were reviewed. A total of 95 thyroid cancer patients that received gasless TOETVA were included in this analysis. Of note, 73 cases underwent one-sided lobectomy and the remaining 22 cases underwent total thyroidectomy. All thyroid cancer patients underwent central lymph node dissection (CND). The average total examined lymph nodes number was 8.55 ± 5.67 per individual. No serious complications occurred during or after the operation besides one patient who had a short-term recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) deficit and one patient who had delayed postoperative bleeding. In conclusion, the use of novel trocars and a suspension system can effectively improve the safety and efficacy of TOETVA.

Trans Oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) in Brazil: Safety and complications during learning curve

Objective

The aim of this study was to address the first cases of TOETVA done in Brazil, by TOETVA-Bra study group, regarding safety and complications.

Methods

Series of the first 93 TOETVAs cases in Brazil. All authors except LPK, AJG JOR and RPT received TOETVA training including cadaveric hands-on in Thailand or United States (Johns Hopkins Medicine) during 2017. After they came back to Brazil and started doing their first TOETVA cases in the cities of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Chapecó they agreed to collaborate and gather data using an online spreadsheet. All patients were submitted to the technique described by Anuwong.

Results

A total of 93 patients underwent TOETVA. Most patients (58.1%) were submitted to total thyroidectomy and 59.1% had benign disease. Two patients (2.2%) needed conversion to open surgery. Five patients (9.3%) developed transient hypoparathyroidism and there were 3 (2.0%) temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. There was one (0.7%) permanent unilateral palsy. Twenty patients had some sort of complication, 16.1% were minor and 5.4% were major. A total of 73 patients (78.5%) had an uneventful recovery.

Conclusion

The technique is reproducible with a low complication rate. While further studies are needed to confirm equivalency, early efforts suggest that TOETVA is not inferior to traditional open thyroidectomy in appropriately selected patients.

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach: An Initial Experience in Vietnam

BACKGROUND

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) can be applied to many health facilities worldwide, even in places whose medical facilities have not developed yet. To that end, our hospital is the first hospital to deploy this novel technique in Vietnam. In the study, the authors will evaluate the safety and efficacy of TOETVA, which was initially performed on patients in Vietnam.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A TOETVA research was conducted on 28 patients in hospital K from January 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019. The surgical outcomes, cosmetic results, and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 91 minutes (70 to 130 min). There were no cases with temporary and permanent hypoparathyroidism in the patients. One patient had temporary mental nerve injury recovered completely after 14-day surgery. No case used drains in patients. All patients were highly satisfied with the surgical outcome, especially, cosmetic results.

CONCLUSIONS

TOETVA is a safe and feasible technique with acceptable complication rates and good outcomes. The authors will carry on this procedure for selected patients. TOETVA should not only be performed in some countries with well-developed health care systems but also be done in other developing countries worldwide.

Trans oral endoscopic thyroidectomy (TOETVA): First French experience in 90 patients

OBJECTIVE

Thyroidectomy techniques using extracervical approaches have grown in popularity for about 20 years and their feasibility has now been demonstrated. We wanted to evaluate one of these new approaches: the anterior vestibular endoscopic approach (TOETVA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of an initial series patients who underwent an anterior trans-vestibular endoscopic oral thyroidectomy.

METHODS

From February 2018 to September 2020, this technique was offered to patients aged 18 to 70, ASA I or II, who presented with an indication for thyroid surgery and who wished to avoid cervical scars. The approach was through the anterior vestibule of the mouth and the specimen was extracted either transorally or via the axilla depending on its size. Apart from the first ten cases, all patients underwent recurrent nerve neuromonitoring. The patients were operated on by two surgeons experienced in thyroid surgery. All the patients had follow-up visits on D15, D30 and at 2 months. The pre- and intra-operative data, length of stay and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 90 consecutive patients (87 women) aged 46±12.4 years (18 to 69) with a mean BMI of 24.4±4 were included. The indications for surgery included 11 papillary cancers, 5 oncocytic nodules, 15 toxic nodules, 13 cases of Graves disease and 46 symptomatic goiters and/or nodules. The mean pre-operative diameter of the nodules was 3.61±1.99 (0.44 to 7.3) cm. The interventions performed were 44 lobo-isthmectomies, 41 total thyroidectomies and 5 isthmectomies. The mean operating time was 134±45min (40 to 255). On D1, the post-operative ionized calcium was 1.09±0.11mmol/L (4.3685±0.44mg/dL) (normal 0.8-1.15mmol/L) (3.206-4.609mg/dL)) and the total serum calcium was 2.07±0.11mmol/L 8.296±0.44mg/dL (normal 2.2-2.5mmol/L) (8.817-10.019mg/dL). Five patients underwent conversion from endoscopic to open cervical approach (5.5%). The complications were seven cases of transient recurrent nerve palsy (7.8%), eight cases of hypoparathyroidism (19%) including six transient and two permanent, one skin burn and 26 cases of transient chin numbness related to the electrocautery (29%). Ten patients (11%) presented with transient post-operative skin ecchymosis that resolved within 7-10 days. A spontaneous pneumo-mediastinum was observed on chest CT in three patients and evolved favorably. No hematoma, or surgical site infection, or complications related to axillary extraction were observed. All the patients declared themselves satisfied post-operatively and at the end of the follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The TOETVA route of entry is a safe and reliable technique in well-selected patients wishing to avoid a cervical scar.

Preferences for thyroidectomy technique: Comparing traditional and transoral approaches

BACKGROUND

We investigated preferences between the transcervical and transoral thyroidectomy approach in the United States and Israel.

METHODS

An online survey assessing scar attitudes and surgical preferences, in English and Hebrew, was distributed on ThyCa.com and other platforms.

RESULTS

928 and 339 responses from the United States and Israel cohorts, respectively, were analyzed. In both countries, individuals without prior thyroidectomy preferred a scarless approach when hypothetical risks equaled those of traditional thyroidectomy (77% United States, 76% Israel, p = 0.61). U.S. respondents without thyroidectomy had greater preference to avoid a scar and would pay more to do so than those with thyroidectomy (both p < 0.001). Many respondents with prior thyroidectomy still expressed interest in scarless alternatives (57% United States).

CONCLUSIONS

Populations in Israel and the United States prefer scarless thyroidectomy when risks equal the traditional approach. While individuals without prior thyroidectomy are more likely to favor a scarless option, former thyroidectomy patients may have preferred avoiding a scar.

The variable direct cost and cost drivers of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach

Background

As transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach grows in popularity, there is a need for data on cost in order to better characterize its value to patients. To this end, we compared the variable direct cost of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach and transcervical approach thyroidectomy and determined which factors drive the increased cost for the transoral approach.

Methods

Patients undergoing thyroid lobectomy and total thyroidectomy that met inclusion criteria for transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach, including those patients that opted for management via the transcervical approach, between 8/2016 and 4/2019 were reviewed. The variable direct cost for the surgical encounter was collected and means were compared between the transoral and transcervical cohorts for lobectomy and total thyroidectomy respectively. The operative time independent variable direct cost was similarly compared between cohorts.

Results

Out of 238 patients, 118 (50%) were managed via transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach and 120 (50%) were managed via transcervical approach thyroidectomy. Mean variable direct cost, our primary outcome, was $4,455 (SD 1,129, 95% CI: 4,204-4,706) for transoral lobectomy and $3,179 (SD 687, 95% CI: 2,990-3,369) for transcervical lobectomy [t(132.05)=8.09, P<0.001] representing a difference in cost of $1,276 (SD 158, 95% CI: 964-1,587). Mean variable direct cost was $4,681 (SD 829, 95% CI: 4,405-4,957) for transoral total thyroidectomy and $3,645 (SD 876, 95% CI: 3,431-3,858) for transcervical total thyroidectomy [t(79.92)=5.98, P<0.001], representing a difference in cost of $1,036 (SD 173, 95% CI: 691-1,381). Differences in energy devices alone account for $487.53 and $447.96 of the cost differences, respectively.

Conclusions

The differences in mean variable direct cost between transoral endoscopic vestibular approach and transcervical approach for lobectomy and total thyroidectomy were $1276 and $1036 respectively, amounts far less than some believe them to be. This data will be invaluable as we ultimately aim to define the value of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach.

Predictive model of operative time in transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach

BACKGROUND

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) has demonstrated excellent safety and is receiving wider use in North America. Understanding which factors lead to operative difficulty, as evaluated by operative time (OT), may help to improve safety and refine indications for this procedure.

METHODS

Cases of TOETVA performed at our institution were reviewed. Multivariate linear regression was performed using patient demographics, thyroid characteristics, and operative variables to predict OT.

RESULTS

A total of 207 cases were included for analysis. A multivariate linear regression model, controlling for age, sex, and BMI, was developed from 104 cases with an R² of 0.47 (p < 0.001). Cross-validation on 103 remaining cases showed root-mean-square error of 46.37. Total thyroidectomy and lobe size were the only significant predictors (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We successfully developed a model to predict OT for TOETVA based on preoperative and operative variables. Lobe size, but not BMI, is a significant predictor of OT.

Transoral Thyroidectomy: Safety and Outcomes of 200 Consecutive North American Cases

BACKGROUND

North American adoption of the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has been limited due to concerns regarding the generalizability of published outcomes, as data are predominantly from Asian cohorts with a different body habitus. We describe our experience with TOETVA in a North American population in the context of the conventional transcervical approach thyroidectomy (TCA).

STUDY DESIGN

Cases of TOETVA and TCA were reviewed from August 2017 to March 2020 at a tertiary care center. Outcomes included operative time, major (permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury, permanent hypoparathyroidism, hematoma, conversion to open surgery), and minor complications. The TOETVA cohort was stratified into body mass index (BMI) classes of underweight/normal < 25 kg/m², overweight 25-29.9 kg/m², and obese ≥ 30 kg/m² for comparative analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed for odds of cumulative complication.

RESULTS

Two hundred TOETVA and 333 TCA cases were included. There was no difference in incidence of major complications between the TOETVA and TCA cohorts (1.5% vs. 2.1%, p = 0.75). No difference was found in the rate of temporary RLN injury (4.5% vs. 2.1%, p = 0.124) or temporary hypoparathyroidism (18.2% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.163) for TOETVA and TCA, respectively. Surgical technique (TOETVA vs TCA) did not alter the odds of cumulative complication (OR 0.69 95% CI [0.26-1.85]) on logistic regression analysis. In the TOETVA cohort, higher BMI did not lead to a significantly greater odds of cumulative complication, 0.52 (95% CI [0.17-1.58]) and 1.69 (95% CI [0.74-3.88]) for the overweight and obese groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

TOETVA can be performed in a North American patient population without a difference in odds of complication compared to TCA. Higher BMI is not associated with greater likelihood of complication with TOETVA.

Surgical approaches to thyroid

Thyroidectomy is the most frequent procedure in endocrine surgery. The conventional approach through a collar incision, as described by Kocher in XIX^th century, has become the "gold standard". It is continuously evolving in spite of, many years ago, it showed to be safe and efficient with quality standards difficult to beat. Endoscopic and robotic surgery have developed "new approaches" to thyroid in order to improve the cosmetic results, looking even for invisible scars. We have done a thoughtful review of most of them trying to understand their benefits and drawbacks. Currently none of these "new approaches" have been shown to be better than conventional open thyroidectomy beyond offering a better cosmetic result. Besides, only a small percentage of patients can benefit of them. However, most of these approaches will remain if they treat the diseased thyroid and also improve the quality of life of our patients.

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via Vestibular Approach With 4 Trocars: A New Technique

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to report the feasibility and safety of a novel 4-trocar approach for transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via the vestibular.

METHODS

In this study, we first used 4 trocars via vestibular area to perform transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy. We reported the safety and surgical feasibility of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy using a 4-trocar technique in our institute from February 1, 2020, to May 10, 2020.

RESULTS

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via the vestibular approach using 4 trocars was carried out in 5 patients. No complications such as bleeding, mental nerve injury, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, or hypoparathyroidism were reported. All patients were completely satisfied with the cosmetic results.

CONCLUSIONS

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy with 4 trocars via vestibular approach is an effective and feasible method. Markedly, this technique can assist surgeons to expose and preserve both parathyroid glands and recurrent laryngeal nerve easily when performing transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy.

Transoral robotic selective neck dissection for papillary thyroid carcinoma: Dissection of Levels III and IV

We present the operative procedure of transoral robotic selective neck dissection for papillary thyroid carcinoma. A 28-year-old woman, diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma and lymph node metastasis at right level IV, underwent total thyroidectomy, central neck dissection, and selective neck dissection involving levels III and IV via the transoral robotic approach. A 1.5-2-cm central incision was made near the base of the lower lip frenulum, and two lateral incisions were made close to the oral commissure. An additional right axillary port was made to place a third robotic instrument for counter-traction. The operation was completed successfully without conversion to the conventional transcervical approach. The working space and surgical view were enough to perform selective neck dissection of levels III and IV. There were no major postoperative complications. Transoral robotic selective neck dissection of levels III and IV is feasible and safe in selected patients.

Minimally Invasive Approaches for Thyroid Surgery-Pitfalls and Promises

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an overview of the feasibility and safety of current minimally invasive remote-access approaches for thyroid surgery, in view of the amounting new challenges and paradigm shifts in the management of thyroid pathologies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Over the past two decades, several remote-access approaches for thyroid surgery have been developed to improve cosmesis; however, none has been widely adopted extensively in the Western world. The recently emerged transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach (TOETVA) is the only true minimally invasive approach, completely avoiding skin incisions. It has a relatively short learning curve, midline surgical view, accessible surgical equipment, and relatively broad inclusion criteria with promising surgical outcomes as reported to date. TOETVA has proven to be safe and feasible for carefully selected patients. Further experience and long-term follow-up are needed to define the added value of TOETVA except for improved cosmetic outcome.

Transoral Endoscopic Vestibular Thyroglossal Duct Cyst Excision

OBJECTIVE

Thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDCs) are relatively common congenital midline neck masses that are treated with surgical excision. Traditionally these are removed along with any associated tract and the central portion of the hyoid bone through an anterior neck incision. Some patients with TGDCs want to avoid an external neck scar.

METHODS

We describe the details of a transoral endoscopic vestibular excision of a TGDC and the associated hyoid bone in an adolescent patient.

RESULTS

This novel approach was successful and there were no complications.

CONCLUSION

We propose that cervical TGDCs can be safely and completely removed with this approach in appropriately selected patients while avoiding a neck scar.

The role of surgeon-performed ultrasound in transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA)

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) is a recently described surgical technique where the thyroid and central neck can be accessed without a cutaneous incision. To date nearly 700 cases have been described within the English literature demonstrating the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of the technique. As more institutions begin to adopt the surgical approach, it is important that surgeons pay close attention to appropriate patient selection and surgical optimization to prevent experience-related complications. A valuable tool to facilitate these considerations is the utilization of surgeon-performed ultrasonography (US). While the merits of surgeon-performed US are well-documented within head & neck endocrine surgery as a whole, its value may be of even greater importance when implementing a novel surgical technique such as TOETVA. Here we highlight and summarize the role of surgeon-performed US within head & neck endocrine surgery, focusing on how it may influence patient selection and surgical planning with TOETVA.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach: First case in Saudi Arabia

INTRODUCTION

There has been increased interest in applying the principles of minimally invasive surgery in thyroid surgery which was promoted by Miccoli and his colleagues in 1999. Different surgical techniques since then were introduced, transcervical and extracervical approaches.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 33-year-old Saudi female presented with a swelling over the left side of her neck and dysphagia for three years. The patient underwent transoral endoscopic left thyroid lobectomy, isthmusectomy and sampling of the central compartment via vestibular approach (TOETVA). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case underwent TOETVA successfully in Saudi Arabia and gulf cooperation council countries.

DISCUSSION

TOETVA is a novel promising procedure, an adaptation of the concept of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) with advantages of scar-less result in excellent cosmesis while retaining the advantages of minimally invasive surgery and the potential value of the procedure outside the enhanced cosmesis continuous to be defined. The cosmetic superiority in avoiding visible scarring must be balanced against operative time, post-operative hospital stays, increased expense, surgical training, and steep learning curve required. The technique is novel, some thyroid surgeons opted for longer postoperative observation to exclude complications. As experience and confidence in the procedure increase, the length of stay should decrease dramatically.

CONCLUSION

This procedure is feasible and safe with excellent cosmetic result. It is in its initial stage in Saudi Arabia, gulf cooperation council countries and it has a potential to be performed more frequently in near future.

Transoral thyroid and parathyroid surgery via the vestibular approach-a 2020 update

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy via the vestibular approach (TOET/PVA or TOETVA-TOEPVA) is the latest remote-access technique employed in the central neck. As the only approach that does not leave any cutaneous incision, (TOET/PVA) has become popular in both the Far East and Western series since its original description in 2015. More than just a "scarless" surgery, (TOET/PVA) has been associated with a short learning curve, access to the bilateral central neck compartments, few surgical contraindications, minimal complications, and minimal additional instrumentation. To date, more than 2,000 cases have been completed, including more than 400 in North America, demonstrating brisk utilization of a novel technique relative to earlier remote access central neck approaches. Herein, we describe updates that continue to improve the safety and efficacy of the procedure.

Simulations and simulators in head and neck endocrine surgery

Simulations and simulators have become an increasingly important tool in trainee education across many surgical disciplines, particularly for robotic and minimally invasive procedures. Thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy are common procedures performed across multiple surgical disciplines, however, there is limited literature regarding training models/simulators for these operations. This is despite the advent and growing popularity of remote-access thyroidectomy techniques, where simulators may provide significant value in trainee education and safe implementation. Here we review the literature regarding available simulations/simulators in head and neck endocrine surgery for both conventional transcervical approaches and newer remote-access thyroidectomy techniques.

Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation Versus Surgery for Low-Risk Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma: Results of Over 5 Years' Follow-Up

Background: Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) typically carries an excellent prognosis regardless of the treatment option pursued. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for thyroid disease has been utilized for benign lesions and in patients who are poor surgical candidates for thyroid cancers with compression symptoms, but the efficacy and limitations of RFA as first-line therapy for PTMC has not been described in adequate detail. The purpose of our study was to investigate RFA versus thyroidectomy in terms of efficacy, oncologic outcomes, quality of life, complications, and costs over a 5-year period of follow-up. Methods: From January 2013 to November 2013, 174 consecutive patients with an isolated, solitary intrathyroidal PTMC were identified in a Chinese teaching hospital. Those with more aggressive or advanced PTMCs were not included. Ninety-four patients elected RFA and 80 patients elected surgery for treatment of these PTMC. Nodules were confirmed to be PTMC without an aggressive histological type by core needle biopsy in the RFA group and by final surgical pathology in the surgery group. The extent of surgery was decided based on patient preferences in consultation with the surgeons. Of all the patients, 58 (72.5%) underwent lobectomy, 22 (27.5%) underwent total thyroidectomy, and 53 (66.3%) underwent lymph node dissection. Pre- and post-treatment variables were compared between the two groups, including demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment, local tumor progression, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, local recurrence, complications, and quality-of-life findings. Results: Patient-specific variables were similar between groups, as were oncologic outcomes after 5 years of follow-up. When compared with RFA, surgery took longer, had a longer hospitalization time, and was costlier (all p < 0.001). The surgery group had three complications, with 2 (2.5%) permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injuries and 1 (1.3%) case of permanent hypoparathyroidism, while none was reported in the RFA group (p = 0.095). The surgery group had a lower post-treatment thyroid-related quality of life. Conclusions: For carefully selected low-risk intrathyroidal PTMC, RFA was not oncologically inferior to open surgery, and it was associated with a higher quality of life and lower overall costs.

Cervical scar satisfaction post conventional thyroidectomy

Background

Thyroidectomy is a commonly performed procedure with large centres performing thousands of thyroid surgeries per year. The traditional Kocher mid-cervical incision has been the standard approach to thyroidectomy since the late 1870s with predictable results. The introduction of minimally invasive and remote access techniques seeks to reduce the morbidity of a mid-cervical scar incision.

Methods

Ninety-five [95] patients who underwent this approach over the thirty [30] months period from January 2015 to July 2017 were administered the validated Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire and the collected data analysed.

Results

Forty-eight [48] patients, (50.5%) met inclusion criteria and provided responses with a mean time since surgery of 18.9 months. There is a high level of satisfaction with 91.7% of patients in the study having scores consistent with scar satisfaction after conventional thyroidectomy. While patients were satisfied with the appearance of their scars, a majority of patients (n=28, 58.3%) were at least slightly conscious of their incisions, with more than 10% of patients (n=5) reporting significant levels of self-consciousness. Patients of Mixed race were found to have slightly elevated scores on PSAQ compared with IndoTrinidadian and AfroTrinidadian races (P=0.002 and P=0.006).

Conclusions

Most patients were satisfied with their scar results in the years after thyroidectomy. Despite the high level of satisfaction, a majority of patients are self-conscious about the presence of a mid-cervical incision. Further research is needed to elucidate causes and the effects of this finding.

Novel Approaches for Treating Autonomously Functioning Thyroid Nodules

Benign thyroid nodules are exceedingly common in the adult population. Only a small percentage of nodules are toxic or autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTNs). The options clinicians have for treating the symptoms of hyperthyroidism include anti-thyroidal medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery. Depending on the patient population treated, these options may not be suitable or have inherent risks that are undesirable to the patient. On the other hand, untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation, emotional lability, and neurological consequences. Thus, we present a review of two novel safe and effective approaches for treating AFTN; one surgical (transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery) and one non-surgical (radiofrequency ablation), as a means for expanding our treatment armamentarium.