Surgery for recurrent nodular goiter is associated with a significant risk of parathyroid and recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) morbidity. Total thyroidectomy for benign disease is assessed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for recurrence and the morbidity associated with reoperation. From 1969 to 1996 a total of 4334 thyroidectomies were performed, of which 122 were for recurrent nodular goiter (group I: 116 women, 6 men). A matched case-control study of 122 patients operated on for nonrecurrent multinodular goiter was performed (group II: 112 women, 10 men). Age, family history, initial surgery, pathology, and morbidity were compared in the two groups by chi2 test, Fisher's exact test, and the Mantel-Haenszel test. The mean age was 39.88 years in group I and 47.89 years in group II. There was no statistical difference in relation to the extent of thyroidectomy or morbidity after initial surgery. Statistical differences were identified regarding age (p = 0.000002) and the multinodular nature of the initial goiter (p = 0.005). Bilaterality and family history were less significant (p = 0.09 andp = 0.08, respectively). Temporary RLN palsy and temporary hypoparathyroidism were higher in group I (12.3% vs. 5.7%,p = 0.0737; 10.6% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.00337). Permanent RLN palsy was found in 0.8% in group I and in none in group II (p = 0.5, NS). Young age and multiple nodules at initial surgery are risk factors for recurrence. A higher rate of temporary morbidity was demonstrated after surgery for recurrent goiter. Total thyroidectomy for multinodular goiter is advisable.
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