Complications Following Surgery for Hyperthyroidism

Between 1992 and 1998, 67 patients underwent a subtotal thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism (Basedow disease). Postoperative complications occurred in 6 patients (9.0%). In 4 patients (6.0%), postoperative bleeding occurred, which was stopped by a reoperation. Postoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy occurred in 2 patients (3.0%); they recovered from the palsy within three weeks. One patient (1.5%) needed vitamin D for 5 years after the operation due to hypo calcemia. We should choose a subtotal thyroidectomy as treatment for hyperthyroidism because very few patients are expected to suffer from severe complications.