Flexible single port access in transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach.

Background: Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is regarded the only no-scar technique which combines minimized surgical trauma with all advantages of endoscopy such as enhanced view, fluorescent parathyroid imaging (FPI) and optimum cosmesis. Addressing TOETVA specific local risk profiles like mental nerve injury, the potential of skin lesions or difficult specimen retrieval we modified the three trocar based TOETVA towards a soft single port platform.

Methods: Single port-TOETVA (SP-TOETVA) was established and retrospectively analysed in five patients using a soft handmade single port housing multiple trocar valves. Standard laparoscopic instruments, one articulating instrument and a vessel-sealing device were utilized. CO insufflation was maintained at 6-8 mmHg.

Results: In all patients SP-TOETVA was completed successfully. Hemigland and total thyroid volumes ranged from 5-40 and 55 mL, respectively. Neither additional trocars nor conversion to open was required. Operation time yielded 102-214 min. Neuromonitoring and FPI were applied. The soft wound protection foil served for convenient specimen harvest. No intra- or postoperative complication occurred. In particular, no functional impairment on mental nerve was seen.

Conclusions: SP-TOETVA with the soft and flexible handmade single port system is feasible and ensures wound protection. It allows for easy instrument application and benefits of minimally invasive surgery without the specific risk of lateral vestibular incisions.