RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Minimally Invasive Video-Assisted Thyroidectomy for Treatment of Benign Solitary Thyroid Nodules in Pediatric Patients JF Ochsner Journal JO Ochsner J FD O. P. Jindal Global University SP 128 OP 131 VO 11 IS 2 A1 Jason Durel A1 Evelyn Kluka A1 Rohan R. Walvekar YR 2011 UL http://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/11/2/128.abstract AB Objective: To review our experience with minimally invasive video-assisted thyroid (MIVAT) surgery for solitary thyroid nodules in the pediatric population.Study Design: 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.Conclusion: MIVAT is a feasible and safe option for the management of solitary thyroid nodules in children.