EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SELECTIVE THYROID ARTERY EMBOLIZATION IN PATIENTS WITH GRAVES’ DISEASE BEFORE THYROIDECTOMY

Surgical treatment of diffuse toxic goiter (DTG) is associated with significant risks, including considerable intraoperative blood loss and potential damage to vital anatomical structures. Selective intra-arterial embolization (SAE) is a promising method for preoperative preparation aimed at reducing these risks. Goal. To evaluate the volume of intraoperative blood loss and the risk of related complications in patients with diffuse toxic goiter using selective intra-arterial embolization before thyroidectomy. Material and Methods. The study included 34 patients with DTG who underwent SAE prior to thyroidectomy. Ultrasound was used to assess thyroid gland volume and blood flow velocity before and after embolization. Intraoperative blood loss and postoperative complications were analyzed. Results. SAE significantly reduced the volume of the thyroid gland and decreased blood flow velocity in its arteries. This led to a marked reduction in intraoperative blood loss. The frequency of complications was low: severe postoperative complications, such as recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy and hypoparathyroidism, were rare. Discussion. The results demonstrate that the reduction in blood flow velocity following SAE is a key factor in decreasing intraoperative blood loss and complications. These findings align with data from the literature and underscore the importance of using SAE in clinical practice. However, further research with larger patient cohorts is necessary to comprehensively evaluate the method. Conclusion. SAE is an effective method of preoperative preparation, significantly reducing surgical risks in patients with DTG. Its use improves conditions for thyroidectomy, minimizing intraoperative blood loss and the frequency of complications.