Comparison of Frequency of Hypocalcemia Following Total Thyroidectomy For Thyroid Carcinoma and Benign Multinodular Goiter

Uroosa Shadani, Mazhar Iqbal, Syed Muhammad Shafqatullah, Sarkhail Ahmed, Amna Fareed, Qandeel Fatima

Abstract

Objective

To compare the frequency of temporary hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy done for thyroid malignancy and benign multinodular goiter.

Study design

Cross sectional comparative observational study.

Place & Duration of study

Department of General Surgery, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) Karachi, from March 2023 to September 2023.

Methods

A total of 35 patients, 18- 80 years of age, both genders who underwent total thyroidectomy were included. Patients with comorbid conditions and preoperative hypocalcemia were excluded. Preoperative serum calcium level was estimated in all patients. In postoperative period serum calcium levels were measured at 12, 24, and 48-hours. Patients with serum calcium level below 8 mg/dl within 48-hours after surgery were considered as hypocalcemic, and their serum parathyroid hormone (S.PTH) levels were then assessed.

Results

The age of the patients was 18 to 80-years with a mean age of 49.17±11.72 years. There were 13 (37.14%) males and 22 (62.86%) females with a male to female ratio of 1:1.7. Temporary hypocalcemia was found in four (11.43%) patients. It occurred less commonly in benign conditions (4.35%) as compared to patients with malignant lesions (25.0%).

Conclusion

The frequency of temporary hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy was high in patients with malignant.

Key words

Thyroidectomy, Hypocalcemia, Thyroid carcinoma, Benign multinodular goiter.