Open Access Surgery (Aug 2019)
Techniques, considerations and outcomes for surgical treatment of retrosternal goiter
Abstract
Stephen KleidDepartment of Surgery, Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3183, AustraliaCorrespondence: Stephen KleidPeter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 26 Balaclava Rd, St.Kilda East, Melbourne, VIC 3183, AustraliaTel +61 41 999 4659Email [email protected]: Retrosternal goiter (RSG) occurs in 2–26% of thyroidectomies. We do not know why some goitres grow “outwards”, and others grow “inwards”. The features of RSG will be discussed, including the assessment and indications for surgery. Most RSGs can be removed trans-cervically. A novel shaver debulking technique is often effective, so sternotomy or thoracotomy is rarely required.Keywords: retrosternal goiter, thyroidectomies, sternotomy, thoracotomy, larynx, multinodular goiter
