American Thyroid Association Statement on Remote-Access Thyroid Surgery.
Journal Article (Journal Article;Review)
BACKGROUND: Remote-access techniques have been described over the recent years as a method of removing the thyroid gland without an incision in the neck. However, there is confusion related to the number of techniques available and the ideal patient selection criteria for a given technique. The aims of this review were to develop a simple classification of these approaches, describe the optimal patient selection criteria, evaluate the outcomes objectively, and define the barriers to adoption. METHODS: A review of the literature was performed to identify the described techniques. A simple classification was developed. Technical details, outcomes, and the learning curve were described. Expert opinion consensus was formulated regarding recommendations for patient selection and performance of remote-access thyroid surgery. RESULTS: Remote-access thyroid procedures can be categorized into endoscopic or robotic breast, bilateral axillo-breast, axillary, and facelift approaches. The experience in the United States involves the latter two techniques. The limited data in the literature suggest long operative times, a steep learning curve, and higher costs with remote-access thyroid surgery compared with conventional thyroidectomy. Nevertheless, a consensus was reached that, in appropriate hands, it can be a viable option for patients with unilateral small nodules who wish to avoid a neck incision. CONCLUSIONS: Remote-access thyroidectomy has a role in a small group of patients who fit strict selection criteria. These approaches require an additional level of expertise, and therefore should be done by surgeons performing a high volume of thyroid and robotic surgery.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Berber, E; Bernet, V; Fahey, TJ; Kebebew, E; Shaha, A; Stack, BC; Stang, M; Steward, DL; Terris, DJ; American Thyroid Association Surgical Affairs Committee,
Published Date
- March 2016
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 26 / 3
Start / End Page
- 331 - 337
PubMed ID
- 26858014
Pubmed Central ID
- 26858014
Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)
- 1557-9077
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1089/thy.2015.0407
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States