A Study on Conventional versus Microscopic Thyroidectomy: A Comparative Study in a Tertiary Care Centre

Introduction: Thyroid surgery has evolved from conventional techniques with limited visibility to morerefined, minimally invasive methods like microscopic thyroidectomy. This technique offers enhancedmagnification and improved safety by preserving critical structures like the RLN and parathyroid glands.However, its adoption varies due to factors such as cost and training. This study compares the two approaches interms of operative time, complications, and patient outcomes to inform clinical decision-making.Aims: To compare the outcomes of microscopic versus conventional thyroidectomy in patients.Materials and Methods: A prospective observational comparative study. Were Medica Super specialtyHospital Kolkata. Period of study 1 year and total sample size were 70Result: A total of 70 patients were included, with 40 in the Conventional Thyroidectomy (CT) group and 30 inthe Minimally Invasive Thyroidectomy (MT) group. Total thyroidectomy was performed in 37.1% of cases,with 62.9% undergoing unilateral lobectomy. Malignant tumors were found in 14 patients, with papillarycarcinoma most common (CT: 8, MT: 4). Postoperative complications occurred in 7.5% of the CT group,including 2.5% RLN injury, 2.5% hypocalcemia, and 2.5% wound hematoma, while no complications werereported in the MT group.Conclusion: In conclusion, the study found that Minimally Invasive Thyroidectomy (MT) had a significantlylower complication rate compared to Conventional Thyroidectomy (CT), with no complications in the MTgroup versus 7.5% in the CT group. Both groups had similar demographic characteristics and surgicalprocedures. MT offers a safer alternative with fewer postoperative risks. Further studies are needed to confirmthese findings.