"Minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy. Initial experience in a general surgery department".

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The aim of this study is to analyze our preliminary results from minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy (MIVAT) and demonstrate the feasibility of MIVAT also in non-referral centers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We report our initial experience based on a series of 47 patients selected for MIVAT at General Surgery Department of University of Trieste during a period from May 2005 to February 2007. The eligibility criteria were rigorously observed. Age, goiter volume, major diameter of the dominant nodule, operative times, pathologic findings, postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, cosmetic results, and complications were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS: Thyroid lobectomy was successfully accomplished in 33 cases, total thyroidectomy in 14. Conversion to standard cervicotomy was required in three patients (6%). Mean operative time of lobectomy was 82.6 min and 118.7 for total thyroidectomy. Postoperative complications included 11 (23.4%) transient hypocalcemias, 2 (4.2%) hematomas, and 2 (4.2%) temporary laryngeal nerve palsies. None-recurrent nerve palsies was observed. The cosmetic result was excellent in most cases.

CONCLUSIONS: Our experience demonstrates that MIVAT, after adequate training, is feasible and safe, with results comparable to conventional thyroidectomy, also in a General Surgery Department, from a dedicated team, with a sufficient and specific activity volume.