Single-Port Hairline Approach Thyroidectomy in Male Patients: A Retrospective Analysis of Cosmetic and Surgical Outcomes

摘要

OBJECTIVES: Although concerns regarding visible scars have traditionally been associated with female patients, male patients are increasingly placing value on cosmetic outcomes in surgical procedures. Single-port robotic thyroidectomy utilizing a hairline approach has proven feasible in female patients. This study aims to evaluate the safety, utility, and cosmetic results of single-port hairline approach thyroidectomy (SPHAT), with a focus on minimizing visible scarring in male patients. METHODS: Thirty-one male patients underwent SPHAT performed by a single surgeon between February 2020 and February 2024. We analyzed operative time, complication rates, pain scores (numeric rating scale [NRS]), and cosmetic outcomes in these male patients. RESULTS: Among the cases, 27 were diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma, 1 with follicular thyroid carcinoma, 2 with non-invasive follicular neoplasms exhibiting papillary-like nuclear features, and 1 with follicular adenoma. The median age of patients was 62 years (range, 34-73 years). Hemithyroidectomy was conducted in 28 cases and total thyroidectomy in 3 cases. Central neck dissection was performed in 26 cases. The median total operative time was 89 minutes (range, 55-160 minutes), with a median console time of 49 minutes (range, 26-125 minutes). All patients were discharged without major complications on the second or third postoperative day. Postoperative pain NRS scores were 3.71±1.56 on the day of surgery and 2.86±0.35 on the first postoperative day. Six months after surgery, the mean cosmetic satisfaction score on a visual analog scale was 8.51±1.62. CONCLUSION: SPHAT is a viable and safe approach for male patients, offering excellent cosmetic.