The Effect of Conventional Open Thyroidectomy on Clinical Results and Respiratory Function Tests in Multinodular Goitre.

Aim: The primary aim of our study was to measure the effect of conventional open thyroidectomy performed for patients with multinodular goiter (MNG) on pulmonary volumes measured with respiratory function tests independent from surgical indications. A secondary aim was to determine whether there was a significant improvement in the complaints due to obstructive symptoms after MNG surgeries.

Methods: This study was conducted between October 2020 and June 2022. Patients who were hospitalized to undergo surgery for giant multinodular goiter were prospectively included in the study. Patients were questioned about complaints of pressure, hoarseness, dyspnea, sleep apnea, snoring, and dysphagia before the surgery and during the follow-up 6 months after surgery. In addition, pulmonary function tests were performed preoperatively, 48 hours after surgery and 6 months after surgery. Forced expiratory volume in 0.5 seconds forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity values in pulmonary function test (PFT) measurements were recorded.

Results: A total of 55 patients, 42 females and 13 males, mean age 49.54 ± 13.6 years, were included in the study. Although there was a significant decrease in clinical symptoms caused by the thyroid volume within 6 months in patients who were operated for giant MNG there was no significant change in pulmonary function tests. There was a positive correlation between the thyroid volume and nodule weight in patients with MNG.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that it is not necessary to follow up with patients without obstructive findings in preoperative pulmonary function tests with pulmonary function tests in the postoperative period.