A comparative study on thyroid surgeries without drain versus with drain in tertiary care centre

Background: Thyroid surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgery for benign and malignant conditions of the thyroid gland worldwide. The thyroid gland is closely related to many vital structures and hence poses a unique challenge to the surgeon. Kocher and Billroth developed the approach to the thyroid gland, both revolutionized the understanding of treatment of thyroid disease. Drainage in thyroid Surgeries has been a routine but empirical practice with no scientific evidence to support its benefit. Materials and methods: The patients admitted in Govt. Stanley Medical College Hospital, Chennai at Department of General Surgery who were having thyroid swelling were included. Results: The mean duration of hospital stay in Group A patient was 2.30+1.20 days whereas it was 5.34+2.37 days in Group B patients, it has a statistical significance in the Cost effectiveness for the Group A patients and also regarding the patient satisfaction in early discharge with significant P value of < 0.001.The wound healing time in the Group A patient was 7+ 0.81 days which was considerably less compared to the Group B patients which was 10.08+0.97 which had a statistical significance with the P value of <0.001. Conclusion: In short the drains are not required in most cases of thyroidectomy. Drains cause discomfort, increase septic complications and prolong hospital stay. These may be useful in patients with Thyroid Swellings.