In addition to being a minimally invasive surgical method that does not affect surrounding organs, this technique meets the aesthetic needs of patients: it leaves no scars, or any scars can be concealed.
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| A case after thyroid treatment via endoscopic surgery. |
The disease includes several thyroid conditions (such as inflammation, goiter, benign tumors, cancer…) that can affect physiological functions and potentially lead to serious consequences. The primary cause of these conditions is iodine deficiency in the body. According to statistics, approximately 4-7% of the Vietnamese population exhibits clinical signs of solitary thyroid nodules, some of which require open surgical intervention. This method addresses treatment needs but does not consider aesthetic factors, as the incision leaves a scar on the patient’s neck. This can lead to a loss of confidence in patients, affecting their quality of life.
The endoscopic thyroid surgery method satisfies both treatment and aesthetic needs for patients; however, it has received little attention from cancer specialists in Vietnam. In fact, one expert in thyroid disease stated, “There is no interest in endoscopic thyroid surgery because this condition can be easily operated on using open surgery“. To date, only Gia Dinh People’s Hospital in the South has performed this method under limited equipment conditions.
Dr. Trinh Minh Tranh, Deputy Head of the Thoracic-Vascular-Urology Department at Gia Dinh People’s Hospital, is instrumental in researching and implementing this technique.
“In major thyroid hospitals worldwide, aesthetic standards are placed on par with treatment perspectives. Therefore, the application of endoscopic thyroid surgery is essential. A survey showed that the primary concern for thyroid patients when indicated for surgery is: they do not want scars. Hence, after being explained, they all wish to undergo endoscopic surgery“, Dr. Tranh stated.
The incision for endoscopic surgery measures 1.5-2 cm, shorter than the 5-6 cm incision for open surgery. Depending on the case, doctors can adjust the incision site away from the neck area (in the chest, areola, or armpit). The average surgery time for an endoscopic operation is about 2 hours, with an average postoperative recovery period of approximately 4 days. This is quicker than open surgery, but not by much.
Currently, two endoscopic surgical techniques have been applied: the CO2 insufflation method and the use of a lifting frame. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, applied to specific cases with different disease conditions.
Dr. Tranh noted that success in surgery heavily depends on the experience in patient selection and surgical expertise. Thus, although all patients prefer endoscopic surgery due to its advantages, only about 1-2 out of every 10 patients are indicated for it. Despite efforts, to date, Gia Dinh People’s Hospital has only performed endoscopic surgery for solitary nodules with a diameter of 4 cm or less, and only for benign tumors.
Vo An
