Long term follow-up after enucleation and resection for autonomously functioning thyroid nodules.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of the operative method (i.e. std. resection vs. enucleation) on postoperative function of the thyroid. Uni- or multifocal thyroid autonomy was resected (group I & III) or selectively enucleated (group II & IV). Postoperative function was determined after 6 and 12 months and again after 3-5 years. "Selective" treatment showed minor postoperative hypothyroidism, but goitrous, nodular or functional disorders are more often present compared to resection cases (4.4% vs 12%).