“In endocrine surgery, thyroidectomy is the most frequently performed surgical procedure.
Morbidity related to thyroidectomy is mainly represented by hypoparathyroidism, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, and cervical haematoma. These complications can occur at a
considerable rate even if thyroid surgery is performed by highly experienced surgeons.
Obtaining accurate haemostasis during thyroidectomy is crucial to prevent the occurrence of postoperative bleeding and, allowing adequate vision of the anatomical structures, is also important to avert the onset of the other complications.”

“Postoperative cervical haematoma is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening complication of thyroidectomy. Our study identified male sex, older age, higher BMI, unilateral lateral neck dissection, drain placement, and shorter operative times as independent risk factors for the onset of this complication. Differently, the use of energy-based devices working by means of hybrid energy was found to be protective for its development. Based on our findings, we believe that patients with these risk factors should be closely monitored in the postoperative period, particularly during the first six hours after the operation, and excluded from outpatient surgery.”

Canu GL, et al REDHOT Study Collaborative Group. Risk factors for postoperative cervical haematoma in patients undergoing thyroidectomy: a retrospective, multicenter, international analysis (REDHOT study). Front Surg. 2023 Oct 2;10:1278696.