Post-thyroidectomy hematoma : a rare but potentially fatal complication

Background/ objectives: Post-thyroidectomy hematoma is a rare but fatal complication of thyroidectomy. The incidence of hematoma has dropped to less than 2-3% due to better preoperative preparation & major refinements in surgical techniques. Setting: Department of ENT, Head & Neck Surgery, KVG Medical College, Sullia. Case report: We report a case of post- thyroidectomy hematoma in an elective surgery done for a large thyroid. The hematoma occurred 15 minutes after surgery & was managed success-fully under general anaesthesia. Intervention: Urgent evacuation of the hematoma was done under general anaesthesia & bleeders were re-ligated. 2 pints of A+ blood was transfused. Conclusion: Post-thyroidectomy hematoma leading to airway obstruction is a fatal complication which needs emergency management. Post-operative care include attention to the drain, careful monitoring in the recovery room & appreciation of subtle signs of respiratory distress. So every thyroidectomy case can bleed & cause hematoma complication. Prevention & early intervention can avoid fatal complications.