Higher Complication Rates for Total versus Partial Thyroidectomy in the Pediatric Population

This study aims to analyze the relative risks for total thyroidectomies by comparing complication rates for total versus partial thyroidectomy in the pediatric population. We queried the Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID) 1997-2012 for all cases of total (n = 3253) or partial (n = 2380) thyroidectomy. We then designed a propensity score matching model and compared total versus partial thyroidectomy based on surgical complications and outcomes. In our cohort, the median age was 16 years and 79% were females. Those treated at a specialty pediatric hospital or pediatric unit in a general hospital comprised 73% of all patients. The most common indications for surgery were malignancy (46%) and goiter (42%). The most common complications were hypocalcemia and nerve injury with an unweighted incidence of 9% (n = 174) and 3% (n = 57) respectively. When compared to partial thyroidectomy, total thyroidectomy was associated with increased rates of postoperative complications. Additionally, the median length of stay was significantly higher for total thyroidectomy patients. This is the largest analysis to date comparing outcomes for total versus partial thyroidectomy in the pediatric population. Surgeons should consider the increased rates of hypocalcemia and nerve injury complications when selecting total compared to partial thyroidectomy in children.