Safe electrosurgery of the thyroid and parathyroid glands using an advanced monopolar L-shaped electrode

Abstract

Focal changes in the thyroid gland are detected in 5 % of women and 1 % of men, often requiring surgical intervention. Standard monopolar instruments carry the risk of burns (0.24 % of cases) and damage to surrounding tissues (13 % of operations) due to parasitic currents. To address these issues, a specialized L-shaped electrode with selective electrical insulation and directional effect has been developed.
Material and methods. The study describes a clinical case of an 85-year-old patient with a left-sided nodular goiter of grade II, euthyroidism, and primary hyperparathyroidism, who underwent hemitheiroidectomy with parathyroidectomy using an improved L-shaped monopolar electrode.
Results and discussion. The new electrode combines an insulated outer surface with a conductive inner part and an optimal 18-centimeter length, which ensures precise tissue exposure, minimizes the risk of laryngeal nerve and parathyroid gland burns, and prevents excessive tissue tension. The use of this electrode in an elderly patient confirmed its effectiveness: nerve function was preserved, and reliable hemostasis was achieved with minimal trauma, which meets modern standards for thyroid surgery.
Conclusions. The developed electrode represents a significant advance in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, especially for complex cases and high-risk patients. The implementation of this development in clinical practice will minimize intraoperative risks and increase the safety of surgical interventions on these endocrine organs.