Endoscopic thyroidectomy via anterior chest wall approach(with a report of 21 cases)

[Objective] To study the feasibility and security of endoscopic thyroidectomy. [Methods] Endoscopic thyroidectomy via chest wall approach was performed in 21 patients. 13 cases of thyroid tumor, 4 cases of nodular goiter, 4 cases of primary hyperthyroidism. 6 cases were performed adenoma resection, 11 cases were performed subtotal lobectomy; 4 cases were performed bilateral subtotal lobectomy. [Result] Operations were successfully performed in 21 cases. There was no operative complication, nor recur cases with 3～14 months follow-up. The mean operation time was (116±16.7) minutes; the average hospital stay was (7±3.5) days; the mean operation blooding is (40±23.6) mL, drainage-tube was withdraw on 2rd or 3th postoperation-day. [Conclusion] Endoscopic thyroidectomy is safe, effective and feasible.