title: Minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy for treatment of benign solitary thyroid nodules in pediatric patients.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To review our experience with minimally invasive video-assisted thyroid (MIVAT) surgery for solitary thyroid nodules in the pediatric population.
  
  
  METHODS
  Case series.
  
  
  METHODS
  A chart review of pediatric patients with a solitary thyroid nodule who underwent a MIVAT procedure from July 2008 to December 2009. Eligible patients had a solitary thyroid nodule less than 3.5 cm. Endpoints of the study included completion of the procedure, an assessment of related complications, and subjective patient satisfaction with respect to cosmesis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Two female patients (ages 12 and 17) underwent a MIVAT for right-sided solitary thyroid nodules (2.1 cm and 3.3 cm, respectively). Technical success was 100% with no conversions to open thyroidectomy. The operative times were 180 minutes and 150 minutes, respectively. Pathology was benign in both cases (follicular adenoma and nodular hyperplasia, respectively). Neither patient had a surgical drain placed, and both were discharged home after a 23-hour observation. A postoperative flexible laryngoscopy confirmed bilateral vocal cord mobility. There were no major complications, and the patients and parents were satisfied with the cosmesis.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  MIVAT is a feasible and safe option for the management of solitary thyroid nodules in children.
authors: Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and Children's Hospital, New Orleans, LA.
authors: Jason
authors: J
authors: Durel
authors: Evelyn
authors: E
authors: Kluka
authors: Rohan R
authors: RR
authors: Walvekar