the Use of Harmonic Scalpel Versus Knot Tying for Total Thyroidectomy

Patients and method: Consecutive patients treated for thyroid enlargement at our institution were evaluated for inclusion. Participants were randomly allocated to receive total thyroidectomy using harmonic scalpel HS or using ligature conventional thyroidectomy CT Follow-up visits were after 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months, Study variables included operative time, length of incision, operative bleeding, postoperative drainage, hospital stay and complication.Preoperative preparation was performed for patients with thyrotoxicosis by antithyroid drug, and they were all euthyroid at the time of surgery. The routine pre-operative workup included measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), as well as plasma levels of total calcium. In addition, a pre-operative laryngoscopy was performed.

A prophylactic antibiotic in the form of a third-generation cephalosporin was administered 2 hours before the operation. The operation was performed with the patient in the supine position under general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation. A Kocher incision, was made at the lower neck crease two finger above suprasternal notch.

In the HS group, using the new harmonic scalpel device Focus (Ethicon Endo Surgery, Cincinnati, OH, USA) was used for cutting and coagulation . For closure of and division of superior and inferior arteries and veins we set the instrument at a power 2 i.e. more coagulation. And when smaller vessels like capsule veins we set it to the level 5 i.e. more cutting The superior artery and vein was divided close to the gland to avoid damage to superior laryngeal nerve. And control of any bleeding from the bed using the active blade of harmonic. Finally we insert drain.

In the conventional group, mono- and bipolar coagulation, as well as ligatures, were allowed.

In both groups, the Intra-operative bleeding was estimated by weighing the gauzes before and after use. Furthermore, blood from suction (when used) was also recorded. Operation time was recorded.

Patients were discharged 24 hours after the procedure. Oral antibiotic coverage was recommended after discharge. Plasma levels of total calcium were measured on the first post-operative day. The need for oral substitution with calcium and/or vitamin D analogues during hospital stay and at patient discharge was recorded together with complications.

Follow-up was performed on postoperative day 7, and then at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. . Patients were also seen at our clinic if they developed symptoms between follow-up visits. At follow-up, serum thyroid hormone concentrations and serum levels of total calcium were measured, and complications recorded. Postoperative laryngoscopy was performed within 4 weeks after surgery in all patients to evaluate vocal cord function.

All assessments were conducted by investigators who were blinded to the experimental condition. The primary endpoint was operative time and secondary end points were operative bleeding, postoperative drainage, costs and complications.

Inclusion criteria

• Consecutive patients treated for thyroid enlargement

Exclusion criteria

• patients with one lobe pathology who need hemithyroidectomy, malignant thyroid previous neck operation, or a history of neck irradiation.