Objective:

To evaluate the differences and advantages of a lateral small incision technique via the cervical midline approach compared to the conventional low-arc-shaped cervical midline approach in unilateral thyroid cancer resection, focusing on minimizing surgical trauma and improving cosmetic results.

Approach:

• Study Design: Retrospective cohort analysis of 124 patients undergoing radical surgery for unilateral thyroid cancer.
• Patient Groups: Patients were divided into a lateral mini-incision group and a traditional low collar incision group.
• Evaluation Parameters: Comparison of clinical characteristics, perioperative parameters, postoperative complications, pain levels, incision characteristics, and scar cosmesis.

Key Findings:

• The incision length in the small incision group was significantly shorter than in the traditional group (P < 0.05).
• No significant differences in operative duration and intraoperative blood loss between groups.
• The small incision group had significantly lower postoperative drainage volume and hospitalization costs (P < 0.05).
• Patients in the small incision group reported significantly lower pain scores and higher satisfaction with incision aesthetics and scar appearance (P < 0.05).
• Improved functional recovery of cervical movement was observed in the small incision group (P < 0.05).

Interpretation:

The lateral small incision technique may reduce surgical trauma and enhance cosmetic outcomes in unilateral thyroid cancer resection.

Limitations:

• The study is limited to a single institution and may not be generalizable.
• The follow-up period for assessing long-term outcomes was not specified.

Conclusion:

The data suggest that the lateral small incision combined with cervical midline approach may reduce surgical trauma and enhance cosmetic outcomes in unilateral thyroid cancer resection.