Transoral thyroidectomy: why is it needed?

Comparison of the degree of patient satisfaction between transoral thyroidectomy and open thyroidectomy: a survey-based study

BACKGROUND

Recent advances in thyroid surgery techniques have increased the number of patients undergoing transoral thyroidectomy, and many patients are concerned about post-thyroidectomy cosmetic effects. This study aimed to compare patient satisfaction after transoral versus conventional thyroidectomy.

METHODS

This study was conducted from August 2021 to January 2022 at Gangnam Severance Hospital (Seoul, South Korea). A total of 91 patients underwent transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy (TOET) or open thyroidectomy performed by a single surgeon. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), and 15-Item Quality of Recovery (QoR-15) postoperative day (POD)#-1 surveys were administered before the surgery. The QoR-15 POD#1 and #2 surveys were administered after the surgery. The Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist surveys were administered on the first day of the outpatient visit after discharge. The survey results were compared to determine the differences between both groups.

RESULTS

Only the HADS-Depression survey scores differed significantly between the TOET and open thyroidectomy groups (4.22 ± 0.781 and 5.52 ± 0.84, respectively; P = .039). Multivariable analysis, adjusted for age and weight differences between the conventional and TOET groups, revealed no differences in any of the survey scores, including the HADS-Depression scores. Therefore, no differences were observed in the survey scores between the TOET and open thyroidectomy groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The subjective postoperative stress about pain and the degree of recovery after surgery were similar between the two groups. Thus, there would be no difference in the patient's satisfaction for surgery between the two groups.

Aptamer-Antibody Birecognized Sandwich SERRS Biosensor in Accurate and Rapid Identification of Intraoperative Parathyroid Hormone

With the increasing incidence of thyroid cancer worldwide and the increasing demand for surgery, the risk of parathyroid injury is also increasing, which will lead to postoperative hypoparathyroidism (HP) and hypocalcemia. In order to improve the quality of life of patients after surgery, there is an urgent need to develop a novel platform that can identify the parathyroid gland immediately during surgery. The parathyroid gland promotes the increase of blood calcium concentration by secreting parathyroid hormone (PTH). Therefore, in this study, we used the sensitive surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technique for rapid detection of PTH, while the near-infrared dye IR808 was used for resonance with the incident excitation wavelength of 785 nm to achieve the surface enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy (SERRS) effect and provide a higher signal. The signal is enhanced by up to 200-fold compared to nonresonant sulfhydryl molecules. In addition, we used an aptamer-antibody mode with low Gibbs free energy (ΔG) and low dissociation constant (Kd), using the sandwich method, to achieve specific recognition of PTH. By optimizing the incubation temperature, aptamer dosage, particle concentration, and other key factors, the optimal detection conditions of the system were obtained. The sensitivity of PTH detection was as high as 9.75 pg/mL at a 5 min incubation time. In this work, we achieved an extension from standard products to rats to clinically practical samples. Finally, the eluate samples obtained from the actual clinical operations were compared with the lateral flow biosensor (LFB), chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), and SERRS, respectively. Finally, using the CMIA results as the reference standard, the SERRS assay achieved a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 100%. This study provides new ideas and methods for the refined development of thyroid cancer surgery, improving postoperative safety and quality of life of patients, and promoting the new mode of intraoperative diagnosis and treatment.

The evolution and clinical impact of single-port transaxillary robotic thyroidectomy: a comprehensive review

Single-port (SP) transaxillary robotic thyroidectomy represents a significant innovation in the field of endocrine surgery, offering a minimally invasive approach that combines oncological efficacy with enhanced cosmetic outcomes. The introduction of the SP robotic system has enabled surgeons to perform thyroidectomy and lateral neck dissection through a single axillary incision, resulting in a scarless neck and reduced postoperative morbidity. This review explores the current practices and surgical techniques associated with SP transaxillary robotic thyroidectomy, emphasizing the benefits of the SP robotic system over traditional multi-port and open approaches. The system's enhanced precision, due to its articulated instruments and high-definition three-dimensional visualization, allows for meticulous dissection, minimizing the risk of complications such as recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and hypocalcemia. The SP design simplifies the surgical process, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues and leading to faster recovery times and improved patient satisfaction. Clinical outcomes of the SP approach are promising, with studies indicating comparable oncological safety to conventional methods and superior cosmetic results. Patient satisfaction is notably high, particularly regarding the absence of visible neck scarring. However, the technique's adoption is limited by its steep learning curve and the high cost of the SP robotic system. This review also highlights the need for further long-term studies to fully assess the sustainability of the SP robotic system's benefits, especially in terms of oncological outcomes and cost-effectiveness. The potential of the SP transaxillary approach to become a standard option in thyroid surgery is discussed, alongside the importance of continued research and surgeon training to optimize its use. In conclusion, SP transaxillary robotic thyroidectomy offers a compelling alternative to traditional approaches, with the potential to significantly enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction in thyroid surgery.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach vs. transoral robotic thyroidectomy: systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the surgical outcomes of the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) and transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT). We carried out a systematic literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar on studies comparing TOETVA and TORT until January 2023. A total of five articles published between 2018 and 2023 that matched the inclusion criteria were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The studies included 641 patients (394 TOETVA patients and 247 TORT patients). TOETVA group was associated with a significantly shorter operative time with a mean difference of 60.08 min [95% confidence interval (CI) - 83.95 to - 36.20; P < 0.001). Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy was more common in the TOETVA group than the TORT group (OR 3.00; 95% CI 1.14-7.88; P = 0.03). There were no significant differences in the other outcomes, including the length of hospital stay, postoperative pain scores, number of central lymph nodes retrieved, permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injuries, and transient and permanent hypoparathyroidism. The TOETVA group was associated with shorter operative time and more transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy than the TORT group. Each procedure has its benefits and limitations. The surgical approach should be determined by considering the patient's characteristics and preferences, as well as the surgeon's preference and area of expertise.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach as a safe and feasible alternative to open thyroidectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is a scarless alternative to open thyroidectomy (OT). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize evidence comparing the intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of TOETVA and OT.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar was performed to identify studies comparing the outcomes of TOETVA and OT published before February 2023. The outcomes of interest were operative time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, postoperative pain, number of central lymph nodes retrieved, number of metastatic central lymph nodes, and incidences of transient and permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, transient and permanent hypocalcemia, hematoma, and infection.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies published between 2016 and 2022, involving a total of 2889 patients (TOETVA, n =1085; OT, n =1804) were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed that the TOETVA group had a significantly longer overall operative time (weighted mean difference [WMD] 55.19; 95% CI, 39.15, 71.23; P <0.001), longer hospital stay (WMD, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.14, 0.39; P <0.001), and lower pain scores on postoperative day 1 (WMD, -1.41; 95% CI, -2.79, -0.03; P =0.04) than the OT group. Other intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were not significantly different between the groups.

CONCLUSION

TOETVA has a similar safety profile to OT with less postoperative pain, making it an appropriate and more cosmetically appealing alternative to OT for select patients.

Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy (BABA-RT) versus transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT): a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of all comparative studies that evaluated the surgical outcomes between bilateral axillo-breast approach-robotic thyroidectomy (BABA-RT) and transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT). The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were screened until July 2022. The Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies for Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool was used to evaluate study quality. The data were summarized as mean difference (MD) or risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) in a fixed-effects or random-effects model. Five comparative observational studies met the inclusion criteria comprising 923 patients (TORT = 408 and BABA-RT = 515). The study quality varied and included low (n = 4) and moderate (n = 1) risk of bias. There was no significant difference between both groups regarding the mean operative time (MD = 19.98 min, 95% CI [-11.33, 51.28], p = 0.21), mean hospital stay (MD = -0.14 days, 95% CI [-0.66, 0.38], p = 0.60), mean number of retrieved lymph nodes (MD = 0.42, 95% CI [-0.16, 0.99], p = 0.16), and rate of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (RR = 0.39, 95% CI [0.13, 1.19], p = 0.10). However, the TORT group had significantly reduced mean postoperative pain score (MD = -0.39, 95% CI [-0.51, -0.26], p < 0.001) and lower rate of hypocalcemia (RR = 0.08, 95% CI [0.02, 0.26], p < 0.001) than the BABA-RT group. TORT and BABA-RT have comparable surgical outcomes. Both methods are largely safe and effective when patients are carefully chosen. However, TORT appears to offer better results regarding postoperative pain and hypocalcemia. Further clinical trials with extended follow-up periods are needed to confirm our findings.

The quality of life after trans oral video-assisted thyroidectomy and cervical thyroidectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Trans oral video-assisted thyroidectomy (TOVAT) is increasingly performed for cosmetic reasons. The quality of life after thyroidectomy is important for decision-making. This is the first meta-analysis to compare the quality of life among conventional transcervical thyroidectomies. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the same in the current literature. The authors systematically searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and EBSCO for relevant articles from the first published to December 4, 2022. The keywords endoscopic transoral via vestibular thyroidectomy, transcervical thyroidectomy, conventional thyroidectomy, scarless thyroidectomy, and quality of life were used. Out of the 482 studies retrieved, 27 full texts were reviewed, and only six fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients with transoral thyroidectomy showed better quality of life that their counterparts who underwent transcervical thyroidectomy at 4-6 weeks following surgery, odd ratio, 2.26, 95% CI, 2.02-2.5, P-value <0.001. Substantial heterogeneity was observed, I2 for heterogeneity, 100%. The quality of life was better among patients who underwent the trans oral video-assisted thyroidectomy (TOVAT) compared to their counterparts with the conventional cervical approach (surgical questionnaire). All the components of the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire were better among TOVAT compared to the conventional approach except for social and general health components, which were equal between the two arms. Further multi-center studies with larger samples and controlling for pain and the surgical curve are needed.

Robotic versus endoscopic transoral thyroidectomy in papillary thyroid cancer: A comparative analysis of surgical outcomes in 240 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

This study compared the surgical outcomes of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) and transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT) in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC).

METHODS

The TOETVA and TORT groups comprised 119 and 121 patients between November 2016 and May 2022. Clinico-surgical outcomes and operation times were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The TORT group showed a higher number of retrieved central compartment lymph nodes, shorter hospital stays, and lower pain score after 48 h than the TOETVA group. No significant difference was observed in the other postoperative complications, including permanent vocal cord palsy. Total operation, working space creation, and endoscopic or robotic surgery times of the TORT group were longer than those of the TOETVA group.

CONCLUSIONS

TORT and TOETVA are feasible and safe. TORT may have some advantages, such as central compartment node dissection, shorter hospital stays, and pain score after 48 h in PTC, despite a longer operative time.

The Role of High-Resolution Ultrasound in the Assessment of Surgical Candidates for Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Via Vestibular Approach (TOETVA)

The approach of surgical techniques has evolved significantly over the last decade, with natural orifice surgeries replacing traditional open approaches. In 2016, Angkoon Anuwong, in Thailand, demonstrated it was possible to perform thyroidectomies in a series of patients by a transoral endoscopic ap-proach - transoral endoscopy thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) - with similar complication rates when compared to conventional surgeries. This transoral surgery has become a safe alternative with better cosmetic results, compared to conventional open-route procedures, like Kocher cervi-cotomy. Indeed, it is an option to surgically treat neoplastic and functional thyroid diseases. The technique is performed through a median incision in the oral vestibule, plus two bilateral incisions, followed by the insertion of three trocars, one centrally for a camera, and two laterally for working instruments. Although revolutionary, TOETVA has its technical limitations. Therefore, it is important to precisely define the preoperative eligibility criteria for this type of surgical approach. High-resolution ultrasound is the first imaging modality for the assessment of thyroid nodules, lymph node metastases and surgical field. The aim of this article is to outline the sonographic technique and the role of high-resolution ultrasound in the presurgical evaluation of TOETVA.

Delayed tracheal rupture following transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach: Case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Although the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has been proven to be a safe procedure for select patients, as it is a novel approach, all associated complications require adequate attention.

METHODS

We presented a 49-year old woman who underwent TOETVA developed delayed tracheal rupture 1 week after surgery. An extensive search of literature was carried out using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for studies reporting tracheal injury following endoscopic thyroidectomy.

RESULTS

Thirteen cases of endoscopic thyroidectomy were analyzed, including eight cases of TOETVA. Tracheal injury occurred during various procedures, including accidental dissection, surgical needle puncture, Hegar dilation and trocar placement, and thermal injury by the energy device.

CONCLUSIONS

Tracheal injury following TOETVA is an underreported complication that can be induced by various factors. Thermal injury to the trachea is more likely to cause a delayed rupture. Careful blunt dissection and standardized use of energy devices are suggested.

A comparative study of two robotic thyroidectomy procedures: transoral vestibular versus bilateral axillary-breast approach

Objective

To compare the surgical outcomes between the transoral-vestibular robotic thyroidectomy (TOVRT) and bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy (BABART).

Methods

A total of 99 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma but no distant metastasis were enrolled in this study from May 2020 to April 2021. Lobectomy or total thyroidectomy with central lymph node dissection were performed in all cases. All 99 patients were received an ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration biopsy prior to surgical intervention, out of which 49 patients underwent TOVRT, while rest 50 patients underwent BABART. During the procedure, intraoperative neuromonitoring system was used and all recurrent laryngeal nerves (RLNs) were preserved, additionally for TOVRT procedure, three intraoral ports or right axillary fold incision was used to allow for fine countertraction of tissue for radical oncological dissection. The clinical data including age, gender, height, weight, BMI, primary tumor size, number of central lymph node removed, central lymph node metastasis, operating time, total hospital stays, postoperative hospital stays, total postoperative drainage volume, postoperative pain score, cosmetic effect and complications were recorded and analyzed.

Results

There were no significant differences in gender, height, weight, BMI and removed central lymph nodes between the two groups (P > 0.05). Patients accepted TOVRT were younger and had smaller primary tumor size than those who accepted BABART. The TOVRT group had a longer surgical time than the BABART group, but with smaller postoperative drainage volume and superior cosmetic effect (under visual analogue scale, VAS) (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in lymph node metastasis, hospital stay and postoperative pain score (under numerical rating scale, NRS) between the two groups (P > 0.05). Last but not least, certain peculiar complications were observed in TOVRT group: paresthesia of the lower lip and the chin (one case), surgical site infection (one case) and skin burn (one case).

Conclusion

Transoral-vestibular robotic thyroidectomy is safe and feasible for certain patients, which could be considered an alternative approach for patients who require no scarring on their neck.

Review, analysis, and education of antiseptic related ocular injury in the surgical settings

Preoperative skin antiseptic preparation is the gold standard for prevention of surgical infection. However, improper use of antiseptics may lead to severe ocular damage. Currently, the most common surgical antiseptics can be divided into aqueous-based and alcohol-based disinfectants, with chlorhexidine and iodine/iodophors being the two major components. Chlorhexidine has a persistent antimicrobial effect and is resistant to neutralization by blood or organic products in surgical wounds. Nevertheless, due to its toxicity to the ears, meninges, and eyes, application of chlorhexidine should be prohibited in these surgical fields. Iodine/iodophor is better tolerated by the ocular surface and is the recommended antiseptic for ophthalmic or head and neck surgeries close to the periocular area. Alcohol is less pricey and has a rapid antiseptic effect, though its desiccating effect and flammability restrict the use in mucosal or laser surgeries. The single or combined use of these antiseptics may inadvertently induce severe ocular damage, especially during time-consuming head and neck surgeries with prone, hyperextension, or lateral tilt positions, or surgeries under general anesthesia. Apart from the choice of antiseptics, appropriate selection and attachment of bio-occlusive dressings are key to avoiding antiseptic-related ocular injuries. In this review, we provided a comprehensive summary of the characteristics of antiseptics used in surgical settings and the possible mechanisms and outcomes of antiseptic-related ocular injuries. The prevention, diagnosis, and acute management of these complications were also discussed.

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.

Adoption of the transoral endoscopic vestibular approach by head and neck surgeons without prior laparoscopic/robotic experience

BACKGROUND

Transoral endoscopic vestibular approach (TOEVA) for thyroidectomy (TOETVA) and parathyroidectomy (TOEPVA) is gaining popularity, yet knowledge is based on a limited number of studies, mostly performed by surgeons experienced in laparoscopic\robotic surgery.

METHODS

All patients who underwent TOEVA at our institution between February 2018 and October 2019 were followed prospectively. Main outcomes were ability to accomplish surgery endoscopically (failure defined as conversion to open approach) and complications.

RESULTS

Seventy-one patients (52 TOETVA and 19 TOEPVA) were included. 98% (51/52) and 100% (19/19) of TOETVA and TOEPVA surgeries were accomplished endoscopically, respectively. Transient vocal cord and mental nerve injuries rates were 8.4% (6/71) and 2.8% (2/71), respectively. Thyroid carcinoma was diagnosed in 27 patients (51.9%), all completely excised with clean margins.

CONCLUSIONS

Adoption of the TOEVA suggested framework by head and neck surgeons without prior experience in laparoscopic/robotic techniques is feasible resulting in nearly 100% of surgeries accomplished endoscopically.

The pros and cons of additional axillary arm for transoral robotic thyroidectomy

Background

Transoral vestibular approach thyroidectomy using robotic system has advantages with articulating instrumentation. Transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT) can be done either using just two robot arms for instruments and an extra one for the endoscopic camera, or using three robot arms for instruments (third arm through axila) and an additional arm for the camera.

Pros of additional axillary arm for TORT

The 4th arm through an additional axillary port is mainly responsible for a counter-traction of strap muscles and thyroid tissue. The additional axillary port tract is also an excellent passage for the specimen removal with lower risk of disruption or fragmentation. Ultimately, these merits from the additional axillary arm allows TORT to be performed safely in a wide range of patient groups.

Cons of additional axillary arm for TORT

One of the issue with the additional axillary arm in TORT is that it leaves a cutaneous scar. Another issue to consider is the cost. In some places, robotic surgery operation fee varies with the number of arms used during the operation. Retraction of strap muscles through subcutaneous stitches applied after establishing the working space may make up for the lack of counter-traction.

Conclusion

TORT can be done safely with or without the transaxillary arm and surgeon may consider pros and cons based on multiple factors.

Transoral thyroidectomy (TOETVA): Complications, surgical time and learning curve

BACKGROUND

Since 2018, transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has emerged as a true scarless thyroid surgery. In this study, we explore early outcomes and learning curve of this new approach.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort including conventional thyroidectomies and TOETVAs performed in a cancer center was designed. Learning curve and early surgical outcomes of TOETVA were assessed and compared to conventional thyroidectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 56 TOETVAs and 745 conventional thyroid procedures were included. In the TOETVA group, we had a 14.4% total complication rate with no permanent vocal cord paresis or hypocalcemia. The mean surgical time dropped from 167 to 117 min (p = 0.0001) after the 15 first cases. Comparing to conventional procedures, we didn't find any significant difference in complications rate. Operative time was longer in the TOETVA group.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, TOETVA was safe and feasible, with a learning curve of 15 cases.

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach: A Single-institution Experience of the First 50 Cases

Background. Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has evolved from a novel procedure to a cosmetically appealing alternative to the traditional open thyroidectomy. TOETVA is limited to only high-volume centers with the hope to expand and demonstrate the safety, reproducibility, and application for the correct patient with thyroid disease. We present our experience with the first 50 TOETVA procedures performed at our institution. Methods. From September 2016 to June 2018, we performed 50 transoral endoscopic thyroidectomies via the vestibular approach for a variety of thyroid pathologies. Outcomes were analyzed from a prospectively maintained database. Patients were treated for a different range of thyroid pathologies. Results. A total of 12 (24%) patients underwent total thyroidectomy, whereas 38 (76%) patients underwent a subtotal thyroidectomy or thyroid lobectomy. The mean surgical time was 149 ± 40.0 (90-256) minutes for lobectomy and 217.6 ± 33.3 (175-276) minutes for total thyroidectomy. Of our 50 patients, 16 (32%) had postoperative transient lower lip numbness with an average time to recovery of 23.8 (.43-48) weeks, with 1 (2%) patient having persistent, but improving, lower lip numbness beyond the 6-month follow-up. There were 13 (26%) patients with transient chin numbness with an average time to recovery of 15.7 (2-48) weeks. Two (4%) patients had transient recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury with hoarseness, whereas 1 (2%) patient had permanent injury. Conclusion. The TOETVA is a safe and reproducible procedure. For selected patients, this technique is a viable alternative to conventional thyroidectomy.

International Multi-institutional Experience with the Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach

Background: Surgical approaches to thyroidectomies have undergone a rapid evolution over the past three decades. Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is currently the latest remote access procedure for the treatment of benign and malignant thyroid disease. The purpose of this article is to present the results of TOETVA from five different international institutions. Materials and Methods: From 2016 to 2019, 152 TOETVA procedures were performed on 149 patients at five separate international institutions. Outcomes were analyzed from a prospectively maintained database. There were 12 (8%) men and 137 (92%) women with mean ages of 41.5 ± 10.3 (27-69) and 46.9 ± 1.8 (17-78), respectively. Results: There were 3 (2%) cases that required conversion from the endoscopic approach to an open procedure. A thyroid lobectomy was performed in 111 (73.0%) cases, total thyroidectomy in 38 (25.0%) cases whereas a completion thyroidectomy in 3 (2.0%) cases. Mean operative times were 161.8 ± 42.4 (83-304) minutes for the lobectomy, 213.4 ± 71.7 (120-430) minutes for the total thyroidectomy, and 136.7 ± 109.8 (64-263) minutes for the completion thyroidectomy. The final pathology report revealed 107 (70.4%) benign nodules, 44 (28.9%) nodules with underlying papillary thyroid carcinoma, and 1 (0.7%) case with Hurthle cell carcinoma. Of the 152 cases, 7 (4.7%) patients developed temporary hypoparathyroidism. There were 5 (3.3%) patients who developed transient recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury and 3 (2.0%) with persistent injury of the RLN. Temporary lower lip numbness was noted in 51 (33.6%) patients whereas 1 (0.7%) patient was noted to have persistent numbness. We reported 57 (38.5%) patients with temporary chin numbness, 9 (5.9%) patients with skin injuries, and 2 (1.3%) with tracheal perforation. Conclusion: To date, the literature and the outcomes from these 5 international institutions have determined that, in select patients, TOETVA can be as safe and efficacious as the traditional trans-cervical technique for the treatment of specific thyroid pathologies.

Transoral robotic thyroidectomy on two human cadavers using the Intuitive da Vinci single port robotic surgical system and CO2 insufflation: Preclinical feasibility study

BACKGROUND

Transoral vestibular approach endoscopic thyroidectomy has gained popularity worldwide because it avoids a cutaneous incision. Some surgeons have expressed reservations about operating with only 2 instruments in the endoscopic technique, and some therefore utilize an axillary incision as an adjunct to facilitate dissection. The Intuitive da Vinci single port robotic system offers the potential to overcome this limitation without an axillary incision.

METHODS

In this study, the Intuitive da Vinci single port robotic surgical system was used to perform transoral thyroidectomy on 2 human cadavers.

RESULTS

A total thyroidectomy was performed in 2 cadavers using the da Vinci single port (SP) robot via transoral vestibular technique. The dissections were performed with removal of the thyroid gland and preservation of the recurrent laryngeal nerves and parathyroid glands.

CONCLUSION

In our evaluation, transoral vestibular approach robotic thyroidectomy using the Intuitive da Vinci SP system facilitated dissection without the need for an axillary incision.

Patient and Surgeon Candidacy for Transoral Endoscopic Thyroid Surgery

The transoral thyroidectomy (TT) is a feasible novel surgical procedure that does not need visible incisions, a truly cutaneous scar-free surgery. Inclusion criteria are (a) patients who have a ultrasonographically (US) estimated thyroid diameter not larger than 10 cm, (b) US estimated gland volume ≤45 mL, (c) nodule size ≤50 mm, (d) a benign tumor, such as a thyroid cyst, single-nodular goiter, or multinodular goiter, (e) follicular neoplasm, and (f) papillary microcarcinoma without evidence of metastasis. The procedure is carried out through a three-port technique placed at the oral vestibule; one 10-mm port for a 30° endoscope and two additional 5-mm ports for dissecting and coagulating instruments. CO₂ insufflation pressure is set at 6 mmHg. An anterior cervical subplatysmal space is created from the oral vestibule down to the sternal notch, laterally to the sternocleidomastoid muscle medial edges. TT is done fully endoscopically using conventional endoscopic instruments.

Optimal wound closure techniques for thyroid and parathyroid surgery: A systematic review of cosmetic outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Cosmesis after surgical wound closure is an important outcome. This is relevant after thyroid and parathyroid surgery as anterior neck scars are visible and often of concern to patients. We aimed to investigate whether wound closure method influences cosmetic outcome in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, in particular using sutures, staples, steri-strips and glue.

DESIGN

We performed a systematic review of MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane focusing on wound cosmesis following thyroid and parathyroid surgery. Searches were conducted using combinations of the search terms: thyroid/parathyroid surgery, wound/skin closure and suture, staples, clips, glue and steri-strips, using appropriate MESH terms and Boolean operators.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcome was wound cosmesis. Secondary measures were also extracted.

RESULTS

Initial search found 304 papers and after systematic review, a total of 10 studies compared different closure methods and cosmetic outcomes. There were nine randomised controlled trials and one cohort study, with a total of 712 patients. Three studies compared staples vs glue; three compared sutures vs clips; two compared suture vs steri-strips and two studies for suture vs glue. In general, short-term cosmesis was better with subcuticular sutures compared to glue or clips, long-term cosmetic outcomes were not influenced by closure method.

CONCLUSIONS

We found closure with subcuticular suture or steri-strips produced superior short-term cosmetic outcomes. Although long-term cosmetic outcome is not influenced by closure method, given the superior cosmetic outcome and advantage of not needing removal, we recommend subcuticular sutures should be performed for wound closure in thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

A surgical and anatomo-histological study on Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA)

BACKGROUND

The number of TOETVA surgeries has increased worldwide but the anatomical passage of trocars is not clearly defined. We aimed to define detailed surgical anatomical passage of the trocars in cadavers. The incisions in oral vestibule, anatomical pathways of trocars, affected mimetic muscles, neurovascular relations of trocars and histological correlation of surgical anatomy were investigated.

METHODS

Four cadavers and 6 six patient oral vestibules were used. The locations of optimised vestibular incisions were measured photogrammetrically. Initial steps of TOETVA surgery were performed on cadavers according to those optimal incisions. TOETVA preformed cadavers dissected to determine anatomical passages of the trocars. Afterwards, flap of lower lip and chin were zoned by software appropriate to the trocars routes. Histological analyses of the zones were made in correlation with dissections.

RESULTS

Mimetic muscles associated with median (MT) and lateral trocars (LT) are orbicularis oris, mentalis, depressor anguli oris, depressor labii inferioris and platysma muscles. Trocars affect mimetic muscles in the perioral, chin and submental regions in different ways. The risk of mental nerve injury by MT is low. LT pass through the DLI muscle. The transmission of LT to the subplatysmal plane in the submental regions can be in two different ways. The arterial injury risk is higher with LT than the MT.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical anatomy of the perioral, chin and submental regions for the initial TOETVA steps has been defined. Detailed surgical anatomical passages of the MT and LT were determined. Anatomical pattern to reach subplatysmal plane are presented. Mimetic muscles effected by trocars were determined. Endocrine surgeons should know the anatomical passage of TOETVA trocars.

What is the Appropriate Nodular Diameter in Thyroid Cancer for Extraction by Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach Without Breaking the Specimens? A Surgicopathologic Study

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) is a novel technique with better cosmetic results. However, extraction of a large malignant thyroid nodule from the central incision of TOETVA necessitates breaking it into pieces to avoid mental nerve injury, a situation that may violate a proper oncological surgery. In this study, we sought the appropriate nodular diameter in thyroid cancer to be removed in an intact status through the central incision of the TOETVA technique. A total of 27 cases of thyroid nodules were operated using the TOETVA technique from Aug 2016 to July 2017. Excluding 10 benign goiters, the specimens of 17 thyroid cancer cases were divided into intact (group T, n=7) and fragmented (group F, n=10), with a median nodular diameter of 18.35 and 30.30 mm, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that the safest nodular diameter is 20 mm, with 100% sensitivity and 87.5% specificity.

Transoral Robotic Thyroidectomy: The Overview and Suggestions for Future Research in New Minimally Invasive Thyroid Surgery

Purpose of review

This journal introduces a overview in depth about the evolution of transoral robotic thyroidectomy, which has been encountering major confrontations in expanding its indications.

Recent findings

Transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT) is one of the newest approaches and draws attention because of its cosmetic excellence. The major advantage of TORT is comparatively smaller flap dissection area than other remote-access methods. The other advantage of TORT is that the wounds of lips fades out over time, and leaves concealed scar near axilla.

Summary

TORT can be done safely to the appropriately selected patients by surgeon expertise in robotic thyroidectomy. It might be a potential alternative surgical approach for thyroidectomy to surgeons who are experienced in remote-access robotic surgery.

Early outcomes in transoral vestibular thyroidectomy: Robotic versus endoscopic techniques

BACKGROUND

The transoral thyroidectomy vestibular approach has been utilized via both robotic (TORTVA) and endoscopic (TOETVA) techniques to perform thyroidectomy. However, there have been no studies evaluating outcomes between these approaches. Here we describe our outcomes for thyroid lobectomy with TORTVA and TOETVA.

METHODS

All cases of transoral vestibular approach thyroid lobectomy at Johns Hopkins Hospital were reviewed. Primary outcomes and demographic data were then compared between TORTVA and TOETVA.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven cases were identified, 7 using the robotic approach and 20 using the endoscopic approach. The procedural success rate for the robotic and endoscopic cohorts was 5 of 7 (71%) and 19 of 20 (95%), respectively (P = .15). There were no persistent nerve injuries, mental, or recurrent in either cohort. Median operative time for TOETVA was 188 minutes versus 322 minutes for TORTVA (P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Thyroid lobectomy can be safely performed via both techniques, although performed more quickly endoscopically, which is likely due in part to differences in the learning curves.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via a vestibular approach: why and how?

The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is a novel, scar-free surgical procedure that does not require visible incisions. Indications for TOETVA are as follows: predicted gland width on diagnostic imaging ≤10 cm; a thyroid volume outline of <45 mL or dominant nodule dimension of ≤50 mm; three or four Bethesda lesions; a primary papillary microcarcinoma without local or distant metastasis; and patient request for optimal esthetic results. Contraindications are as follows: patients unfit for general anesthesia; precedent radiation in the head, neck, upper mediastinum; antecedent neck surgery; recurrent goiter; a gland volume of >45 mL or main nodule diameter of >50 mm; and documentation of lymph node or distant metastases, tracheal/esophageal infiltration, preoperative laryngeal nerve palsy, hyperthyroidism, mediastinal goiter, or an oral abscess. Patients with poorly differentiated or un-differentiated cancer, dorsal extrathyroidal radius, and/or lateral neck metastasis are not suitable for TOETVA. Following the introduction of a robotic surgical system, enabling a three-dimensional surgical view and the use of articulating instruments, TOETVA became suitable for most differentiated thyroid cancers without evidence of extensive extrathyroidal invasion or lateral neck metastasis. The procedure is performed using a vestibular approach and three-port technique; a 10-mm port is used for the 30° endoscope, two 5-mm ports are used for the dissecting and coagulating instruments, and an 8-mm port is placed in the axillary fold during the robotic procedure to enhance fine countertraction of tissue for radical oncological dissection. TOETVA follows surgical planes and is probably the best scar-free approach to the thyroid, given the short distance between the gland and intraoral incisions.

Central neck dissection via the transoral approach

There has been a strong impetus for the development of remote access approaches to the central neck. The primary motivation for this has been to alleviate the negative impact that some patients may perceive from a central neck scar. Numerous approaches have been described; however the only approach that provides midline access and equivalent visualization of the bilateral thyroid lobes and paratracheal basins is transoral neck surgery (TONS). TONS has been shown to be safe and effective in performing thyroidectomy, parathyroidectomy, and central neck dissection (CND) via both the endoscopic and robotic techniques. In contrast with other remote access techniques, it provides the surgeon with familiar views of the bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerves (RLN) at their insertion site in concert with equivalent access to both paratracheal basins, thus uniquely facilitating safe and comprehensive CND. Though feasible and safe, CND via TONS is not appropriate in all cases. CND via TONS should only be performed with concomitant transoral total thyroidectomy, either prophylactically if the surgeon routinely performs prophylactic CND, or therapeutically if there is newly found evidence of nodal metastasis in the central compartment at the time of surgery. We base these recommendations on both the recent American Head and Neck Society (AHNS) consensus statement for indications for transcervical CND and the baseline indications for TONS.

Indications and contraindications to transoral thyroidectomy

Patient motivation to avoid neck scarring has been a strong impetus in the development of remote access approaches to the thyroid, including transoral robotic or endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOR/ETVA). TOR/ETVA continues to become more prevalent given its early success in North America and the demonstration of its safety and efficacy in Asia. As more surgeons perform this procedure, it is important that specific and uniform indications and contraindications exist to prevent surgical complications due to poor patient selection. In this article, we review the existing English literature regarding TOR/ETVA and compile the inclusion and exclusion criteria of individual authors for both robotic and endoscopic techniques to date. We then resolve differences in the existing literature to provide recommended indications and contraindications to TOR/ETVA based on both our review and our own experience with TOR/ETVA to date. The following are our resultant recommended indications for TOR/ETVA: patient history of hypertrophic scarring or motivation to avoid a cervical neck incision with a maximal thyroid diameter ≤ 10 cm and dominant nodule ≤6 cm, with one of the following pathologic criteria; benign lesion, multinodular goiter, indeterminate nodule, or suspicious lesions/well-differentiated thyroid carcinomas ≤ 2 cm. Recommended contraindications to TOR/ETVA are as follows: history of head & neck surgery, history of head, neck, or upper mediastinal irradiation, inability to tolerate general anesthesia, evidence of clinical hyperthyroidism, preoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, lymph node metastasis, extrathyroidal extension including tracheal or esophageal invasion, oral abscesses, substernal thyroidal extension, or failure to meet inclusion criteria as above. Relative contraindications include smoking and other oral pathology, and surgeons should be aware that morbid obesity may make it difficult to raise skin flaps.