Complications of thyroid and parathyroid surgery

Today most complications of thyroid and parathyroid surgery are related to either metabolic derangements or injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerves. Other complications include superior laryngeal nerve injury, infection, airway compromise, and bleeding. Although the principal goal of thyroid and parathyroid surgery is the prevention of these complications, prompt recognition and intervention will minimize morbidity and provide the patient with the best chance of a satisfactory outcome.