Optimal surgical treatment for bilateral multinodular goitre

Abstract

Objective: In the present study, we compared subtotal thyroidectomy (STT) with total thyroidectomy (TT) in the management of bilateral multinodular goitre. Methods: A total of 204 consecutive patients with bilateral multinodular goitre were assigned to have either TT (n = 73) or STT (n = 131). Demographic details, hospital stay, biochemical findings, indications for operation and complications were noted. Results: There was no significant difference in the age and sex ratio between the two groups (P = 0.695 and P = 0.733). According to thyroid functional status, the majority of patients were euthyroid in both groups (73.28% vs 84.90%). Goitre grades II and III presented the most common indication for STT and TT. Hospital stay for patients who underwent TT was significantly longer compared to STT (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the rate of permanent complications. Conclusions: In the present study, we have shown that the risk of permanent complications with TT is no greater than with STT. © 2007 The Authors; Journal compilation © 2007 College of Surgeons of Hong Kong.