Combined approach thyroidectomy for intrathoracic goiter: endo catch retrieval

Abstract

Diving goiters can descend the cervical region and expand into the thoracic cavity. Therefore, thyroidectomy for intrathoracic goiters is not always possible through cervicotomy. Sometimes, a sternotomy, a video-accompanied thyroscopic surgery (VATS), or a thoracotomy is needed, which is a more invasive technique yielding the risk of major complications. In our hospital, we prefer a VATS whenever possible; however, the major drawback of this technique is the length of the thoracic incision, limiting the retrieval of large goiters through small incisions. We report the first case of an Endo Catch retrieval system through cervicotomy combined with the VATS technique for resection of a large intrathoracic goiter. The goiter was successfully resected without complications. A combined approach of thyroidectomy with cervicotomy and VATS is a safe technique as described in the literature. This approach is also possible with an Endo Catch retrieval system through cervicotomy in the case of massive goiters.