Total thyroidectomy and thyroid lobectomy

Abstract

The key to a safe thyroidectomy is to dissect in the correct cervical planes using absolutely meticulous, bloodless technique. This optimizes the surgeon's ability to identify and preserve delicate perithyroidal structures such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands, as well as minimize the risk of life-threatening postoperative neck hematoma. This chapter describes the technique of a conventional thyroidectomy performed via an anterior cervical incision. An overview of preoperative workup and postoperative care is also included.