A Clinical Study of Thyroidectomy Complications: Hoarseness, Hypocalcemia and Hematoma.
10.16956/kjes.2007.7.4.252
- Author:
Wooseong BEOM
1
;
Dukjin MOON
;
Junsik KIM
;
Bumsuk PARK
Author Information
1. Department of Surgery, Gwangju Christian Hospital, Gwangju, Korea. tigerwoo2002@daum.net
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Thyroidectomy;
Complications;
Thyroid disease
- From:Korean Journal of Endocrine Surgery
2007;7(4):252-256
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
PURPOSE: The use of thyroidectomy has increased as a diagnostic technique for thyroid disease. However, performance of a, thyroidectomy is accompanied with complications. Post-thyroidectomy complications include recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, hypocalcemia, hematoma, infection, and thyroid storm. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical incidence and to evaluate complications after a thyroidectomy, including recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, hypocalcemia, hematoma, and scaring, following a retrospective review of cases. METHODS: From July 2004 to May 2006, 661 consecutive patients that had undergone a thyroidectomy were identified. Through a retrospective review, we evaluated the incidence and type of complications, including recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, hypocalcemia, hematoma, and postoperative scaring. RESULTS: 1) Recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy was a very serious complication, but had a very low incidence. Eight cases out of 661 cases developed and most of the cases developed after a total thyroidectomy. 2) Hypocalcemia was the most common complication. Each incidence of hypocalcemia of methods of thyroid surgery was significant (P= 0.019) but, thyroid disease did not have significant difference (P=0.071). 3) The incidence of postoperative hematoma was 2.74% (18/655). Graves’ disease was more predominant than other diseases. CONCLUSION: Post-thyroidectomy complications and cosmetic problems include recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, hypocalcemia, hematoma, and postoperative scar. An understanding of the incidence and review of complications after a thyroidectomy may reduce their incidence.
