Surgical management of anterior mediastinal tumors of thyroid origin: a comprehensive analysis of approaches, techniques, and outcomes

Abstract

Abstract Background This manuscript aims to describe the symptoms, demographics, surgical approaches and techniques, the volume of surgical interventions, histological results, intra- and postoperative complications, and postoperative results in patients with anterior mediastinal tumors of thyroid origin (AMTTO). Methods Twenty patients with AMTTO were operated between 2017 and 2021. Fifteen were women and 5 were men. The mean age was 66.8 years. Results The most common histology was nodular micro- and macrofollicular goiter (15/20, 75%). Kocher cervicotomy (65%) was the preferred approach. Total thyroidectomy was performed in 95% of patients. Intraoperative complications were identified in 25% (5/20), and in 2 patients a tracheostomy was required. Early postoperative complications were established in 65% and the most common was unilateral transient recurrent nerve paresis or paralysis and dysphonia (25%). Conclusions Commonly resection of AMTTO is a challenge due to its complexities associated with high-risk cases, emphasizing the need for experienced centers in managing such cases.

Keywords

• Anterior mediastinal thyroid tumors
• Histology
• Approaches
• Surgical treatment
• Complications