Comparative Study of Transaxillary Robotic Thyroidectomy With Modified Radical Neck Dissection Versus Conventional Open Surgery in Patients With Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma and Lateral Neck Node Metastases

What this Trial Is About

Papillary thyroid carcinoma, the most common type of thyroid cancer, often involves lateral neck lymph node metastasis. This trial investigates the safety, long-term cancer control, and quality of life after two surgical treatments for patients with N1b papillary thyroid cancer: robotic-assisted surgery via a single-incision transaxillary approach versus traditional open surgery. The goal is to provide evidence on whether the newer robotic method can offer similar cancer outcomes with improved cosmetic results and quality of life. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the robotic-assisted surgery using a single incision through the armpit or conventional open surgery with neck lymph node dissection. This prospective, multicenter randomized controlled study compares these two surgical approaches in treating papillary thyroid cancer with lateral neck metastases. The robotic surgery technique aims to reduce visible neck scars while maintaining cancer control. During the study, participants will be followed for up to 60 months to measure disease-free survival and overall survival rates. Quality of life will be assessed at 12 months and monitored over 60 months, including shoulder function, swallowing, neck movement, voice, and aesthetic satisfaction. Researchers will also evaluate long-term safety and functional outcomes. The study is sponsored by Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University and includes adults aged 18 to 70 years with confirmed papillary thyroid cancer and lateral neck lymph node involvement.

Comparative Study of Transaxillary Robotic Thyroidectomy With MRND Versus Conventional Open Surgery in N1b PTC