Publication:

Outcome of thyroid surgery by applying a haemostatic agent with and without a drain

Background Thyroidectomy is a common surgical procedure for benign and malignant thyroid diseases. The routine uses of surgical drains following thyroidectomy remains controversial, particularly with the application of modern haemostatic agents that may effectively prevent postoperative bleeding and hematoma formation. This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of thyroid surgery with and without the use of a drain tube when haemostatic agents were applied.

Methods This comparative study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), from July 2023 to August 2024. A total of 30 patients undergoing thyroid surgery were divided into two groups: 16 with drain tube placement and 14 without.

Results The mean age of the participants was 36.94±8.73 years in the drain group and 39.86±7.12 years in the non-drain group, with females comprising the majority in both. Multinodular goiter was the predominant diagnosis, and total thyroidectomy was the most frequently performed procedure. Postoperative complications such as hemorrhage, respiratory distress, wound infection, and stridor were not observed in either group. Only two patients (14.3%) in the non-drain group developed mild neck swelling, which resolved with conservative management. The mean hospital stay was shorter in patients without drains, and although this difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05).

Conclusions The application of haemostatic agents during thyroid surgery provides effective intraoperative hemostasis, making routine drain tube placement unnecessary. Avoiding drains may enhance patient comfort and reduce hospital stay without increasing postoperative complications.