There is no consensus today on distinct definition of retrosternal (RG), substernal (SG) or cervico-mediastinal (CMG) goiter. It is commonly defined as thyroid mass that extends three or more centimeters below the suprasternal notch while the neck is in the hyperextended condition [1]. RGnowadays is a challenge for the surgeon and the radical resection represents the only one effective treatment modality. It is noteworthy that total thyroidectomy is recommended due to the risk of present malignancy or future malignant degeneration and compressive symptoms. This isusually a successful operation with low complication risk and excellent long term results in experienced centers. In this article we described three cases with large retrosternal goiters, which were successfully operated in Thoracic surgery department and we created a brief literature review.
 

Download Full Text - PDF