[Thyroid surgery applicable in developing countries]

Abstract

Thyroid surgery in developing countries is performed by general surgeons with limited diagnostic and therapeutic resources. The aim of this review is to describe the indications for and appropriate type of surgery according to the diseases observed. Endemic goiter (grade 1 and 2) usually regresses with iodine therapy. Surgery is indicated only for its complications: mechanical, neoplastic, or related to hyperthyroidism. The choice of operation depends on the specific disease and also on the likelihood that thyroxine will be continuously available for the patient's lifetime. Total thyroidectomy should be avoided whenever possible if thyroxine supplies are unreliable. Hemithyroidectomy and subtotal thyroidectomy are the techniques that should be used in priority.

Keywords: developing countries; endemic goiter; iodine deficiency; thyroidectomy.