Thyroid storm during the recovery phase after non-thyroid surgery in a hyperthyroid patient: a case report and literature review

This case underscores that non-thyroid surgery can precipitate thyroid storm in hyperthyroid patients, even with atypical presentations (e.g., absence of hyperpyrexia). Early recognition relies on vigilance toward tachycardia and altered mental status. Perioperative management should emphasize: (1) rigorous preoperative optimization of thyroid function to achieve euthyroidism; (2) vigilant postoperative monitoring for early signs of thyroid storm; and 3) prompt diagnosis using the Burch-Wartofsky scale and guideline-based criteria, followed by combined therapy with beta-blockers, corticosteroids, and antithyroid drugs. This case uniquely demonstrates that non-thyroid surgery can precipitate thyroid storm without classic hyperthermia, highlighting the need for standardized monitoring protocols in hyperthyroid surgical patients.