TOTAL THYROIDECTOMY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF DIFFUSE TOXIC GOITER*

Abstract

The inadequacies of modern methods of treatment for diffuse toxic goiter are pointed out. Total thyroidectomy is offered as a logical approach to the problem. The experience gained from 280 total thyroidectomies performed over a 14-yr. period and based on a 96.1% follow-up is presented. The control of postoperative athyrea, the incidence of parathyroid tetany, and of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury are discussed. The authors'' experience indicates that total thyroidectomy can be performed with a morbidity and a mortality rate comparing favorably with those attending subtotal thyroidectomy. It is believed that the rehabilitation is superior and that the danger of recurrent hyperthyroidism is abolished.