Physicians:

Endoscopic and Video Assisted Thyroid Surgery

Endoscopic and video assisted thyroid surgery is a new modification of the classic open procedure. The endoscope is similar to that used in abdominal surgery and provides a magnified view of the structures in the neck despite a much smaller incision.

Standard neck incisions for the “open” procedure typically measure around 8cm (3.1 inches). With the endoscopic procedure, the incision measures 1.5cm (.59 inches).

With the use of an endoscope, a single small incision is made on the neck. As in other types of minimally invasive surgery, this results in less scarring and less postoperative pain.

Dr. Miccoli at the University of Pisa, Italy first introduced the video assisted technique. In their series of over 900 patients, the procedure proved to be as safe as the traditional “open” procedure. Studies from other facilities have subsequently confirmed these findings. Indications for the procedure are the same as for open surgery and include nodules, cysts and goiter. There are however, certain contraindications to the procedure such as previous thyroid surgery and biopsy proven malignancy. This procedure also allows select patients to have “outpatient” surgery, which means the patient could go home on the day of surgery.

Advances in technology continue to expand our ability to offer minimally invasive surgical techniques. The endoscope in particular has allowed surgeons of all types to perform various procedures with smaller incisions yet much improved visualization. The endoscopic thyroidectomy is yet another example. Less postop pain is generally noted with this procedure as less scarring which is especially important with regard to the prominent location of the gland.

I have now performed several of these procedures with excellent outcomes. If you have any patients who may benefit from this procedure, or if you have any questions please feel free to contact me at markm78249@aol.com. I would be happy to help in any way I can.