Anti-adhesive Effect and Safety of Sodium Hyaluronate-Carboxymethyl Cellulose Membrane in Thyroid Surgery

Abstract

Introduction

A number of researchers have suggested the use of sodium hyaluronate carboxymethyl cellulose (HA-CMC) membrane for preventing postoperative adhesion. This study evaluated the anti-adhesive effect and safety of the HA-CMC membrane in thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid cancer.

Methods

One hundred sixty two patients who underwent thyroidectomy were prospectively randomized. In the study group of 80 patients, the 7.5 x 13cm HA-CMC membrane was applied to the operative field after thyroidectomy. The subjects were asked about complications including adhesive symptoms using a 8-item questionnaire at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months after surgery. In addition, items on the appearance of neck wrinkles and scars were evaluated by a physician who had no information about the patients allocation.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in complications such as swallowing difficulty, and wrinkles between study and control groups. Both groups presented significantly decreased scores over time in swallowing difficulty, and wrinkles. There were no complications regarding to the HA-CMC solution.

CONCLUSION

The HA-CMC membrane did not decrease subjective or objective postoperative adhesion in patients undergoing thyroid surgery, although it was biologically safe.