Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy using a self-retaining retractor as an alternative to carbon dioxide gas insufflation: A comparative analysis of 131 cases

Although transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery affords several advantages, the use of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas to create and maintain the working space may cause complications such as subcutaneous emphysema and a CO2 embolism. We have used a self-retaining retractor as an alternative to CO2 gas insufflation for some time; we here report its feasibility and safety. We reviewed the medical records of 131 patients who underwent transoral endoscopic thyroid lobectomy; we compared the "CO2 group" and the "retractor" group. All thyroid tumors were completely removed with negative surgical margins. No major complication occurred in the retractor group. Two major events occurred in the CO2 group: one case of permanent vocal cord palsy and one CO2 embolism. Significant subcutaneous emphysema of the neck and chest were noted in 17.7% of CO2 group patients, but in no retractor group patient. Wound infection occurred in one patient in each group but improved after appropriate management. The total operation times from incision to suture did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.514). Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy using a self-retaining retractor as an alternative to CO2 gas insufflation is feasible and safe. The superiority of transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy would be emphasized by avoiding CO2 gas insufflation, thus eliminating the risk of CO2 gas-related complications.