A thyroidectomy procedure usually requires an incision in the lower part of the neck. With traditional surgery, a scar of as much as four inches (and sometimes more) was typically very apparent on a permanent basis on the necks of patients who underwent thyroid surgery. But, with minimally invasive thyroid surgery, any mark left by the procedure is nearly invisible.
Large unwanted scars can be minimized by taking appropriate preventative measures. There are several factors that contribute to excellent wound healing after thyroid surgery, including the following:
- Surgical technique
- Length of incision
- Wound closure technique
An atraumatic surgical procedure is a crucial component in wound healing. Cutting edge minimally invasive surgery leads to better recovery for the patient and maximizes wound healing. An experienced surgeon recognizes the importance of minimizing incision size, depth, and trauma to the underlying tissues. Endoscopic thyroid surgery is the new gold standard in minimizing scarring as well as safeguarding laryngeal nerves to prevent vocal paralysis.
Precise closure of the incision site can mean the difference between a virtually undetectable procedure and a noticeable scar. All too often, closure of an incision site is delegated to part of the surgical team as an afterthought. Meticulous suturing as well as close followup can help avoid the appearance of scars.
Laser
Fractional CO2laser for thyroidectomy scars can be used to treat patients several months after surgery.
A surgeon uses laser to make “rough or elevated” scars less prominent by removing part of the upper layers of skin with an abrading tool or laser light.
References
http://www.ohniww.org/endoscopic-minimally-invasive-thyroidectomy/
https://www.ariahealth.org/programs-and-services/surgery/general-surgery/endocrine-surgery/minimally-invasive-thyroid-surgery
http://e-aaps.org/DOIx.php?id=10.14730/aaps.2014.20.2.109
