RCT: Prophylactic steroids prevent hypocalcemia and voice dysfunction in patients undergoing thyroidectomy.

Use of Prophylactic Steroids to Prevent Hypocalcemia and Voice Dysfunction in Patients Undergoing Thyroidectomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial – JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery (link to abstract – $ for full-text)

Author interview: Prophylactic Steroids for Postthyroidectomy Hypocalcemia and Voice Dysfunction

Commentary: IV Steroid Before Thyroidectomy Prevents Complications — One dose of dexamethasone reduced hypocalcemia, voice issues – MedPage Today (free registration required)

Commentary on Twitter

This RCT with 192 patients found that pre-op dexamethasone resulted in a reduction in hypocalcemia at 24 hrs post-op by 24% and reduction in voice dysfunction at 24 hrs by 25%. Strong evidence in supporting a pre-op 8mg dose of dexamethasone @JAMAOto https://t.co/UIt18DXclN

— Jay Piccirillo, MD (@PiccirilloJay) September 5, 2021