High Rate of Total Thyroidectomy in Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma Despite Guidelines

Despite recent evidence supporting conservative management, 63.4% of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) patients in the community underwent total thyroidectomy, leading to higher rates of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and hypocalcemia compared to lobectomy. Non-endocrine surgeons also administered radioactive iodine more frequently. Subgroup analysis showed variations in total thyroidectomy rates based on tumor size and surgery period. Overall, the study highlights the need for increased awareness and adherence to best practice guidelines for PTMC treatment.