goitres plongeants

ABSTRACT

In a series of 363 patients operated for goiter, 60 were retrosternal [16,5%]. The female incidence although less than in cervical goiters remains predominant [2,51]. Most patients are in older age group, 68% being above 40 years. The majority of goiters are multinodular and of long duration. Bilateral [37%] and left sided location [43%] were common. The incidence of cancer was 7%, thyrotoxicosis was noted in 5 patients [8%]. Most patients were symptomatic [97%]. Diagnosis is easily done by physical examination, chest X-Ray and thyroid scintigraphy. Computed tomography might be helpful. Retrosternal goiter is an indication to surgery except in high risk patients. The cervical approach has been used in 98% of cases. There were no postoperative death and no major complications [compressive hematoma, laryngeal nerve paralysis, hypocalcaemia]