Outcomes measured
transient laryngeal nerve palsy, laryngeal nerve palsy
SKIN, SCAR, THYROID, METASTASIZED, HYPOCALCEMIA
Pathological reports were reviewed to obtain the number of dissected and metastasized central neck lymph nodes. The total operation time was recorded from the time of incision to the closure of the incision. Skin flap preparation time was from the time of incision to just before using the video camera to pursue the surgery. The total drainage volume was obtained by readings on the drainage flask. All patients had an electro‐laryngoscope before surgery and on Day 3 postsurgery to assess the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Reduction of vocal cord movement was recorded as temporary laryngeal nerve palsy. For patients with transient laryngeal nerve palsy, the latter underwent a further electro‐laryngoscope 6 months postsurgery to assess for permanent laryngeal nerve palsy. The serum calcium levels of all participants were tested 2 days postsurgery; no participants reported hypocalcemia.The scar of patients was assessed 6 months after surgery using the POSAS.The Chinese version of the Thyroid Cancer‐Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire was used to assess for the thyroid‐specific symptoms caused by the surgery.