OBJECTIVE: It is extremely important to establish sufficient exposure and room for manipulation during endoscopic thyroidectomy. To solve this problem, the authors have developed a new technique for retraction of the strap muscles perfected during 500 cases of breast-approach endoscopic thyroidectomy. METHODS: The new technique encompasses the use of 3 styles of retractor: the suture retractor, the button retractor, and the adjustable button retractor. These retractors are all easy to make and are all useful in different situations. CONCLUSIONS: The new technique is a safe and cost-effective method. It reduces the operation time required to obtain good exposure without transecting the strap muscles. In addition, it is minimally invasive and confers cosmetic benefits.
OBJECTIVE: It is extremely important to establish sufficient exposure and room for manipulation during endoscopic thyroidectomy. To solve this problem, the authors have developed a new technique for retraction of the strap muscles perfected during 500 cases of breast-approach endoscopic thyroidectomy. METHODS: The new technique encompasses the use of 3 styles of retractor: the suture retractor, the button retractor, and the adjustable button retractor. These retractors are all easy to make and are all useful in different situations. CONCLUSIONS: The new technique is a safe and cost-effective method. It reduces the operation time required to obtain good exposure without transecting the strap muscles. In addition, it is minimally invasive and confers cosmetic benefits.