Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Endoscopic thyroidectomy, initially an experimental procedure, is now being performed in increasing frequency. It aims to provide patients undergoing thyroidectomy with a 'scar-free' surgery. Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy is one such novel procedure that is based on the principles of natural orifice translumenal surgery (NOTES) and allows for a truly scar-free surgery with minimal dissection. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 21-year-old female presented with a swelling over the left side of her neck. Ultrasound revealed a solitary nodule and FNAC showed features suggestive of a follicular adenoma. DISCUSSION: The patient underwent transoral endoscopic hemi-thyroidectomy. The procedure lasted for 2h and is one of the few documented cases of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy performed on live patients. CONCLUSION: Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy is proving to be a feasible technique with little or no complications as compared to other endoscopic thyroid surgeries. It provides surgeons with easy access to the thyroid gland and patients with aesthetically pleasing results.