Parathyroid function following ligation of the inferior thyroid arteries during subtotal thyroidectomy

ABSTRACT

A randomized controlled trial was performed to compare two techniques of subtotal thyroidectomy for non-toxic nodular goiter with regard to postoperative parathyroid function. 40 patients in group 1 underwent ligation of trunks of the inferior thyroid arteries. In group 2 [40 patients] the branches of the arteries were suture ligated at the thyroid capsule. Total calcium, ionized calcium and parathyroid hormone levels were determined before operation and 6, 24 and 72 hours after surgery and at follow up 6-12 months after operation. 8 patients in group 1 and 9 in group 2 required calcium and/or vitamin D supplementation for symptomatic hypocalcemia in the immediate postoperative period. At follow up only one patient in each group had mild hypoparathyroidism. No statistically significant differences were found between groups regarding total calcium, ionized calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. Truncal ligation of the inferior thyroid arteries during bilateral subtotal thyroidectomy does not cause hypoparathyroidism or hypocalcemia