Current technology in thyroid surgery

Background/Aims: After nearly 100 years of inertia in the field of thyroid surgery, the last 5 years have seen substantial changes in how patients with thyroid disease are approached surgically. Much of this evolution has been technologically driven, particularly as a result of advances in high-resolution endoscopy and ultrasonic technology, intraoperative image guidance, and cranial nerve monitoring. Methods: State-of-the-art review. Results: Three emerging technologies that are gradually becoming embraced by thyroid surgeons are reviewed in detail. Conclusion: Modern endocrine-head and neck surgeons bear an obligation to cautiously consider value-adding technologies when a benefit to their patients is apparent.