How does minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy (MIVAT) compare with conventional thyroidectomy?
Background: The advantages of minimally invasive thyroid surgery include shorter hospital stays, reduced postoperative pain, and improved cosmetic results. Studies have also demonstrated functional advantages over conventional surgery with regard to voice and swallowing. MIVAT is one type of these procedures, with two others being complete endoscopic techniques and mini-incision open techniques.
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August 2011Study design: A systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis.
Setting: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, St. Bartholomew’s hospital, West Smithfield, London, United Kingdom; Department of Surgery, West Middlesex University Hospital, Isleworth, Middlesex, United Kingdom; and St. George’s Hospital, Tooting, London, United Kingdom.