Our Summary

The study looks at the results of thyroid surgery performed on 59 children between 2003 and 2019. The surgeries were done in a university hospital and other large private hospitals. After the surgeries, the doctors kept track of the patients’ health. Some of the things they noticed were that three patients needed a new airway (tracheostomy), 22 patients had temporary low parathyroid hormone levels (transient hypoparathyroidism), eight patients had permanently low parathyroid hormone levels (definitive hypoparathyroidism), and three patients had vocal cord paralysis. The study concluded that thyroid surgery in children can have more complications than in adults. Therefore, it should be carried out by highly experienced surgeons. The aim of the study was to bring these complications to the attention of those interested in the subject.

FAQs

  1. What were some of the complications observed in children after thyroid surgery in this study?
  2. What is the reason for recommending highly experienced surgeons for performing thyroid surgeries on children?
  3. What was the primary aim of the study conducted on the results of thyroid surgery in children?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about thyroidectomy is to make sure to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including taking any prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments. It is also important to monitor for any signs of complications, such as difficulty breathing, changes in voice, or changes in calcium levels, and to seek medical attention if any concerns arise. Additionally, discussing the risks and benefits of the surgery with the surgeon beforehand can help ensure a successful outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended thyroidectomy include those with:

  1. Thyroid cancer
  2. Large goiters causing compression of the trachea or esophagus
  3. Hyperthyroidism that does not respond to other treatments
  4. Graves’ disease
  5. Thyroid nodules that are suspicious for cancer
  6. Recurrent thyroid nodules
  7. Thyroid nodules causing symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or breathing

It is important for patients considering thyroidectomy to discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and to seek care from experienced surgeons to minimize complications.

Timeline

  • Before Thyroidectomy:
  1. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as blood tests, ultrasound, and possibly a biopsy to confirm the need for surgery.
  2. Patient meets with an endocrinologist and a surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks.
  3. Patient may need to undergo pre-operative preparation such as adjusting medications or following a special diet.
  4. Patient undergoes the thyroidectomy surgery, which typically takes a few hours under general anesthesia.
  • After Thyroidectomy:
  1. Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room for any immediate complications.
  2. Patient may experience temporary hoarseness or difficulty swallowing due to irritation of the vocal cords or surrounding tissues.
  3. Patient may need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days for observation and pain management.
  4. Patient will be prescribed thyroid hormone replacement medication to regulate hormone levels in the body.
  5. Patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon and endocrinologist to monitor healing, hormone levels, and potential complications.
  6. Patient may need to undergo vocal cord therapy if they experience vocal cord paralysis.
  7. Patient may experience long-term complications such as hypoparathyroidism or the need for additional surgeries to address complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with thyroidectomy in children?

  2. How experienced is the surgeon who will be performing the thyroidectomy on my child?

  3. What is the expected recovery time following a thyroidectomy in children?

  4. How will my child’s hormone levels be monitored and managed after the surgery?

  5. What is the likelihood of my child experiencing vocal cord paralysis or other complications after the surgery?

  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to thyroidectomy for my child’s condition?

  7. How will the potential need for a tracheostomy be evaluated and managed during and after the surgery?

  8. How will my child’s parathyroid hormone levels be monitored and managed after the surgery?

  9. What follow-up care will be needed for my child after the thyroidectomy?

  10. Are there any long-term implications or risks associated with thyroidectomy in children that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Hojaij FC, Cervantes O, Zulino CN, Pereira LD, Vanderlei FAB, Abrahao M. Journal: Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2025 Jul;91 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):101642. doi: 10.1016/j.bjorl.2025.101642. Epub 2025 May 24. PMID: 40414019