Study note
SurgeryThe thyroid gland

Thyroidectomy wound closure

THE CONTEXT
Closure addresses trachea-to-skin adhesion while avoiding a watertight muscle layer that could promote pressure if a haematoma develops.

Drain and muscle closure

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Most surgeons do not place a drain.
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Place interrupted sutures through sternohyoid to prevent adhesion between the trachea and skin.
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Do not aim for a watertight muscle closure because it may promote pressure in the event of a haematoma.

Superficial closure

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Close the platysma, then perform subcuticular skin closure with an absorbable suture.
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