Minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy (MIVAT): technique, advantages, and disadvantages

Minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy is suitable for selected patients undergoing thyroidectomy. The procedure is gasless and performed with the assistance of an endoscope via a small (<2 cm) neck incision. Results are encouraging with similar complication rates to conventional thyroidectomy but with superior cosmesis, less postoperative pain, and reduced hospital stay. An expected learning curve together with a small number of suitable cases makes it more difficult to learn. It is of most benefit where thyroidectomy is indicated in the younger patient, particularly females with suitable thyroid lesions.