[Minimally invasive low-collar incision in near total thyroidectomy].

Objective: To explore the clinical feasibility and features of adopting a low-collar arc-shaped incision for minimally invasive near total thyroidectomy.

Methods: From April 1998 to March 2007, the procedure was accepted by 53 patients with thyroidal nodules, including nodular goiter (n = 34), thyroid adenoma (n = 12) and thyroid carcinoma (n = 7). Near total thyroidectomy was performed through a 2 - 4 cm low-collar horizontal skin incision by conventional instrumentation.

Results: The incision yielded excellent cosmetic results because the small and lower incisions were completely hidden by clothing collar. The recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands were easily identified and preserved. The mean operation time was 62.2 minutes (range: 58 - 112). No complication occurred. The mean bleeding amount was 25 ml (min: 10, max: 100). The drainage was extracted at Day 2 or 3 postoperatively. The mean postoperative stay was 7.6 days (range: 7 - 12) while the post-operative follow-up 2 months to 9 years.

Conclusion: Such technique is feasible, safe, minimally invasive, less time-consuming and cosmetically ideal. It is suitable for young and middle-aged women.