Thyroid surgery without drains

Abstract

Wound drainage after thyroidectomy was considered to be a routine procedure. However, it has recently been noted that there is a rising trend in the literature to limit wound drainage to selected cases, or even obviate the need for drains altogether. This article presents 100 cases of patients undergoing hemi or total thyroidectomy without drains over a 5 year period. Only two cases of hemorrhage were observed and the overall hospital stay was shortened. Drains after thyroidectomy can be avoided in most cases and should be used sparingly when indicated.