Abstract
From 1979 through 1992, we have conducted operations for differentiated thyroid carcinoma in 392 cases, 18 of which were under the age of 20. As in the case of adults, the same basic surgical approach was used for the young patients: 1) total thyroidectomy, 2) bilateral lymph node dissection, and 3) parathyroid autotransplantation. We attempted to determine the strengths and weaknesses of our operative approach by comparing for diameter of neoplasms, lymph node metastases and the like with adults, including the Quality of Life in the postoperative course. Tumor diameter was more than t2 in 80% of the cases, and in 60% of adults. Lymph node metastases were found in about 90% of the patients, and in 76% of the adults. Evidence of progressive carcinoma was found operatively in more young persons than adults, but there was no recurrence in all 18 cases. Postoperative complications included only a mildly lowered parathyroid function in one case and postoperative cheloid in 3 cases. No problem whatsover was noted in growth or development of the patients less than 10 years of age; 3 females who had come of age had children. Thus our surgical approach is considered appropriate, and promises sufficient radicality and favorable postoperative course.
