Traditional vs Advanced Thyroidectomy: Patient Preference

Objective: Several thyroidectomy techniques are available today, both traditional and advanced. However, little data is available regarding patients’ preference and understanding of their options. The purpose of this study is to 1) evaluate patents’ choice prior to thyroid surgery; and 2) examine factors that influence it. Method: This study was conducted at the tertiary medical center between October 2010 and February 2011. Patients visiting the surgery clinic for evaluation of thyroid pathology were given a 2-part questionnaire regarding their knowledge of different thyroidectomy techniques and factors which influence their choice. Results: The majority of patients had no prior knowledge of thyroidectomy techniques (82.3%) and did not conduct research on their own prior to surgical consultation (70.6%). Patients who reported research spent less then 6 hours, used various sources, and traveled less then 30 miles to the clinic. No patients claimed knowledge of different advanced thyroidectomy techniques. More females than males reported cosmesis as an important concern (64% vs 11%), while both groups cited safety as the most important factor. Patients showed preference of neck scar to axillary/sternal scar (56% vs 21%). 90% of patients said that the visit changed their knowledge. Conclusion: While patients are interested in different thyroidectomy techniques, their preference is driven primarily by concern for safety. Cosmesis is more important for females than males, although both genders prefer cervical scar. Despite the availability of information, patients conduct little research and most of them rely on their surgeon for education.