The Risk Factors of Post-Thyroidectomy Hematoma: Our Experience in Jordanian Royal Medical Services

Introduction: Neck hematoma post thyroidectomy is a life-threatening complication and frequently reoperation is indicated. The risk factors and prevalence of post-thyroidectomy hematoma were evaluated herein. Methods: In this retrospective descriptive study (657) medical files of patients who underwent thyroidectomy in Jordanian Royal Medical Services were enrolled. Thyroidectomies were done between January 2016 and May 2023. The follow-up period was up to 48 hours post thyroidectomy. Coagulopathies were excluded from this study. SPSS model 26 was used to analyze data. Results: Regarding the demographic and categorical data there were significant differences in male sex, age > 50 years, higher BMI, high blood pressure, volume of surgeries, histological diagnosis, and short operative time (P-value < 0.05). The other variables like extent of thyroidectomy, hyperthyroidism, drain placement, lateral and central neck dissection, and use of hemostatic agents were insignificant (P-value > 0.05). Out of (657), 6 patients had postthyroidectomy hematoma (0.9%). 4 patients were treated by revision of the surgery (0.6%) and 2 patients were treated conservatively (0.3%). Conclusion: Cervical hematoma is a dangerous complication and rarely occurs postthyroidectomy. Related risk factors are male gender, ages > 50 years, higher BMI, perioperative hypertension, high surgeon volume, final pathological type, and short operative time which when they monitored closely could decrease the risk of this fatal complication.