Sensory change in the chin and neck after transoral thyroidectomy: Prospective study of mental nerve injury

Abstract

Background:The study aimed to evaluate the sensory changes on the chinand neck in transoral thyroidectomy.Methods:We prospectively assessed the cutaneous sensation of 10 zones ofthe chin, face, and neck in 43 patients who underwent transoral robotic orendoscopic thyroidectomy using the Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments test,preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months.Results:The sensation of the chin and lower lip did not differ before and aftersurgery. However, the pressure threshold of the submental and level VI areaincreased significantly after surgery, and returned to the preoperative level1 month and 3 months postoperatively, respectively.Conclusion:In terms of mental nerve injury, transoral thyroidectomy is safewhen performed successfully. However, proper placement of oral vestibularincisions and minimal dissection of the chin is essential to avoid mental nerveinjury.