ABSTRACT
Surgery for the thyroid gland began pre-Renaissance and was advanced with modern techniques by renowned surgeons, including Theodor Kocher, Billroth, and Halstead. The strap muscles are reapproximated with a running 3–0 vicryl stitch, making sure to re-oppose the fascia over the musculature appropriately and leave a space inferiorly. It is then important to verify the absence of any further bleeding within the subplatysmal space before closing the skin with 3–0 vicryl subdermal sutures. Restrictions on strenuous activity and diet as well as bathing instructions are important for good wound healing in the first few weeks after surgery. The majority of patients with thyroid nodules are managed conservatively with serial sonographic examinations. The incidence of differentiated thyroid cancer is increasing faster than any other malignancy; however, overall survival remains stable. The diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma can be challenging on fine needle aspiration as cytology is often indeterminate.
