Comparison of uncomplicated thyroidectomy with and without drain.

Abstract

Objective: To compare uncomplicated thyroidectomy with drain and without drain in terms of postoperative hematoma, wound infection and hospital stay. Study Design: Prospective study. Period: January 2024 to 30 June 2024. Setting: Department of Surgery, Sahiwal Teaching Hospital. Methods: A total of 72 patients with 36 patients in group (with drain) and 36 patients in group (without drain) were included in the study. Inclusion criteria were patients with diagnosed thyroid swelling, age 18-60 years, both genders. Comparison of outcome between both groups were using chi square test and independent t test. Results: The study included 72 patients, with 36 in each group undergoing uncomplicated thyroidectomy. Post-operative hospital stay was significantly longer in the drain group (2.47 ± 0.61 days) compared to the without drain group (1.62 ± 0.55 days). Hematoma incidence showed a higher percentage in the drain group (38.8%) compared to the without drain group (27.7%). On the other hand, post-operative infection was significantly higher in the drain group (42.6%). Conclusion: Our study indicates that using drains in uncomplicated thyroidectomy prolongs post-operative hospital stays and increases the risk of post-operative infection. While hematoma rates show no significant difference, these findings question the routine use of drains in such surgeries.