Background
We developed the bilateral, axillo-breast approach (BABA) to endoscopic thyroidectomy
and applied it to the da Vinci robotic surgical system in 2008. Herein, we have analyzed
the immediate postoperative outcomes and 1-year follow-up results of robotic BABA
total thyroidectomy with central node dissection (CND).
Methods
In 2008 and 2009, 109 patients with PTC underwent robotic BABA total thyroidectomy
with CND. Clinicopathologic characteristics, short- and long-term complications, and
postoperative thyroglobulin (Tg) level were obtained prospectively and analyzed.
Results
The mean age was 39 ± 10 years and the male to female ratio was 1:5.8. The mean operation
time was 206 ± 36 minutes. Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy occurred
in 17 cases (16%) and transient hypocalcemia in 21 cases (19%). The median follow-up
was 12 months. There were 1 and 2 cases of permanent RLN palsy and permanent hypoparathyroidism,
respectively. Postoperative radioactive iodine ablation was performed on 54 patients
(50%). Their mean stimulated Tg level was 1.84 ± 6.35 ng/mL and 76% had stimulated
Tg levels <1.0 ng/mL.
Conclusion
Robotic BABA total thyroidectomy with CND yields good postoperative outcomes. Given
the excellent cosmetic outcomes, this technique may be a suitable operative alternative
for low-risk patients with PTC.
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
September 16,
2010
Identification
Copyright
© 2010 Published by Elsevier Inc.
