No visible scar on the neck
Scarless transoral thyroid surgery avoids the conventional neck incision and limits the cosmetic impact of thyroidectomy.
Minimally invasive technique
TOETVA uses a miniature camera and fine instruments inserted through the oral vestibule, under general anaesthesia.
Specialised endocrine surgery
Dr Deroide treats thyroid conditions rigorously, precisely selecting the patients who are suitable for this surgical approach.
TOETVA technique
What is TOETVA?
TOETVA stands for Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach. It is a transoral thyroidectomy technique that allows all or part of the thyroid to be removed without a visible incision on the neck.
In practice, three small incisions are made inside the mouth, behind the lower lip. They are used to insert a miniature camera and surgical instruments to carry out thyroid removal under strict safety conditions.
For many patients, this technique meets two expectations: treating the thyroid condition effectively and avoiding the visible thyroid surgery scar left by a conventional operation.
Scarless thyroid surgery
Why choose the TOETVA technique?
Avoiding a neck scar after thyroid surgery
The scar after thyroid surgery is often an important concern, particularly for younger patients or people who care about the appearance of their neck. With TOETVA, there is no visible scar at the base of the neck.
A precise view of the operating field
Endoscopy provides a magnified view of the anatomical structures. This allows precise surgery on the thyroid gland, the recurrent nerves and the parathyroid glands, as part of an appropriate procedure.
Closely monitored recovery
As with any partial or total thyroidectomy, recovery is closely monitored. The surgical strategy and follow-up are tailored to the condition and to the extent of the operation.
Indications
When can scarless thyroid surgery be offered?
TOETVA is not suitable in every case. It may be considered for selected patients after a full clinical, laboratory and imaging assessment.
- Some thyroid nodules.
- Some goitres whose size is compatible with this approach.
- Some cases requiring a partial thyroidectomy.
- Some cases requiring a total thyroidectomy.
- Situations where there is a strong cosmetic concern, as long as this is compatible with surgical safety.
The decision always depends on several criteria: size of the lesion, its location, medical history, the patient’s anatomy, imaging results, suspicion of cancer, and whether an associated lymph node procedure is needed.
Key point
Oncological and surgical safety always remains the priority. Avoiding a visible scar must never come at the expense of the quality of treatment.
During the consultation, Dr Deroide explains in detail whether scarless thyroid surgery is possible in your situation, or whether a conventional approach is preferable.
The procedure
How is a TOETVA thyroidectomy performed?
Before thyroid surgery
The pre-operative assessment is used to confirm the indication, assess the extent of the operation and prepare for the procedure under optimal conditions.
During surgery
Under general anaesthesia, three small incisions are made in the oral vestibule. They allow a camera and instruments designed for endoscopic surgery to be inserted.
After thyroidectomy
As after any thyroid surgery, post-operative monitoring covers voice, calcium levels, pain, swallowing, internal healing and pathology results where needed.
Before / after
Photos after scarless thyroid surgery
A few photos of female patients who underwent thyroid surgery with the TOETVA method, performed by Dr Deroide
Dr Deroide’s expertise
Recognised expertise in thyroid surgery
Dr Grégoire Deroide is a general and endocrine surgeon. He treats conditions of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, as well as other conditions within the field of endocrine and digestive surgery.
His work has also been featured in scientific publications and in several well-known media outlets. In particular, Dr Deroide is cited in a publication available on ScienceDirect, which reinforces the credibility of his approach and of his expertise in thyroid surgery and TOETVA.
- Thyroid and parathyroid surgery
- Rigorous assessment of the indication for surgery
- A personalised approach based on the condition and the patient
- Clear information on the benefits, limitations and recovery after surgery
Media coverage
Dr Deroide in the media
Articles
Our articles on thyroid surgery
The website already offers a wide range of content on thyroid surgery, the TOETVA technique and Dr Deroide’s media appearances.
This section lets you explore these articles, deepen your understanding of the procedure and become familiar with each stage of your care.
Would you like to know whether TOETVA is right for you? Dr Deroide will see you in consultation to assess your case, answer your questions and advise you on the most appropriate technique.
Frequently asked questions