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Thyroid surgery: the sub-mental drain

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 October 2008

V Dhar*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, UK
R Townsley
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, UK
M Black
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, UK
O Laccourreye
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and neck surgery, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, France
*
Address for correspondence: Mr Vikram Dhar, Flat 43, Victoria Court, Royal Earlswood Park, Redhill RH1 6TF, UK. E-mail: vdhar100@hotmail.com

Abstract

Objective:

To propose an alternative site of thyroid drain placement.

Background:

During thyroid surgery, post-operative drains are often placed. It is common practice to bring out the drain lateral to the wound, often creating an additional, unsightly scar.

Conclusion:

We have found excellent cosmesis is achieved by bringing out the drain in the midline in a sub-mental skin crease, with the scar hidden in the chin shadow. In our experience, such drain placement is a safe, straightforward method with an excellent cosmetic result.

Type
Short Communications
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2008

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References

1 Clark, MP, Patel, NN, Farrell, RW. Drain placement after thyroid surgery: the bra-strap line. J Laryngol Otol 2002;116(9):722Google Scholar