Quality of life of pateints after thyroidectomy

Abstract

Introduction. Total or partial thyroidectomy is becoming increasingly common in the treatment of thyroid gland cancers and goiter. Undergoing surgery significantly affects the quality of life of patients.

Objective of the work. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of life in patients after thyroidectomy.

Material and methods. The study involved 100 respondents who had undergone thyroidectomy. The research methods included a diagnostic survey, estimation method, an author’s own questionnaire, and standardized tools such as the SF-36 scale and the VAS scale.

Results. The results indicated significant differences in the quality of life among patients after thyroidectomy across various domains of functioning.

Conclusions. 1. Between the “0” and “3” postoperative days, the most significant changes were observed in symptoms such as difficulty speaking, changes in voice tone, hoarseness, tingling and numbness around the mouth and limbs, facial and finger muscle cramps, bleeding, and fever. No significant changes were found regarding surgical wound infections, wound dehiscence, and the presence of drains. 2. Pain intensity assessed with the VAS scale was higher on postoperative day “0” compared to day “3”, indicating reduced pain and improved recovery. 3. No significant differences were found in the assessment of quality of life, physical or mental health in relation to the occurrence of hypocalcemia. 4. No significant differences in quality of life were noted between patients undergoing total versus subtotal thyroidectomy. 5. Age and the presence of comorbidities significantly impacted lower assessments of physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life. Gender did not significantly affect these indicators.