Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy using the vestibular approach with an endoscopic retractor in thyroid cancer: experience with the first 132 patients

Background Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy using the vestibular approach (TOETVA) is a novel technique for thyroid cancer surgery. We aimed to review our initial experiences with TOETVA for the management of thyroid carcinoma, using retrospective analyses of a larger single-center case series. Methods From September 2016 to April 2018, 132 patients with thyroid cancer underwent TOETVA. A three-port technique through the oral vestibule was used to perform endoscopic thyroidectomy with ipsilateral central compartment dissection using conventional laparoscopic instruments, and an endoscopic retractor that we developed. Results All patients had papillary thyroid carcinoma. Less-than total or total thyroidectomy with ipsilateral central compartment node dissection was performed (124 vs. 8). The mean operation time was 87.6 min (range 56–213 min). The average number of lymph nodes resected was 2.6 (range 1—12). Six patients experienced transient hoarseness, which was resolved within 3 months. Most of the patients were discharged within 3 days after surgery. Conclusions In this large series from a single center, we found that TOETVA with the endoscopic retractor can be performed safely and radically in selected patients with thyroid cancer.