POSTOPERATIVE OUTCOMES OF TOTAL THYROIDECTOMY IN CUSCO, PERU: FINDINGS FROM A HIGH-ALTITUDE REGION

Abstract

Introduction: Total thyroidectomy is a common procedure in the treatment of thyroid diseases. However, geographical factors such as high altitude may influence postoperative outcomes.
Objective: To evaluate the incidence of postoperative complications following total thyroidectomy and identify associated risk factors in a high-altitude setting in Cusco, Peru.
Methods: This was a retrospective and observational study based on the review of medical records from 85 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy at Hospital Antonio Lorena between 2014 and 2024. Demographic, surgical, and postoperative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.
Results: The mean age was 45 ± 12 years, with a predominance of female patients (69.4%). Thyroid cancer (82.4%) was the most common surgical indication. The overall complication rate was 47.1%, with transient hypocalcemia being the most frequent (40%). Permanent hypocalcemia occurred in 2.4% of cases, and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury in 9.4%. Postoperative hemorrhage (1.2%) and surgical site infections (2.4%) were rare. The average hospital stay was 4.2 ± 1.1 days. Calcium supplementation was required in 80% of patients, and all received levothyroxine.
Conclusion: Total thyroidectomy can be safely performed in high-altitude regions, with mostly transient complications. The findings suggest that altitude may influence the complication profile, highlighting the need for further research on its impact on surgical outcomes.