A Systematic Review of Prophylactic Central Neck Dissection on Short-Term Locoregional Recurrence in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in Clinically Node Negative Patients after Total Thyroidectomy

Abstract

Abstract Background Thyroid cancer, notably papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), is a global health concern, warranting effective treatment strategies. The role of prophylactic central neck dissection (PCND) in clinically node-negative cases remains a subject of debate. Aim of the Work This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of total thyroidectomy with and without PCND on locoregional recurrence (LRR) and postoperative complications in PTC patients without clinically evident nodal metastasis (cN0). Patients and Methods Eight relevant studies from the past decade, encompassing 11,049 participants, were included in the analysis. The study focuses on outcomes related to recurrence rates, postoperative complications, and associated factors. Results The analysis suggests a trend toward a reduced recurrence rate with PCND following total thyroidectomy in clinically node-negative PTC cases, although statistical significance is not reached. Postoperative complications, including permanent hypoparathyroidism and laryngeal nerve palsy, are higher in the PCND group but do not show a statistically significant difference. Conclusion Prophylactic central neck dissection following total thyroidectomy appears to have a potential impact on reducing recurrence in clinically node-negative PTC cases. However, the study emphasizes the need for further research to validate these findings and explores the long-term advantages of PCND in conjunction with evolving surgical techniques.