Table 4

Specific incidences of complications.

Dysphagia: 3 patients experienced dysphagia. 2 patients suffered from mild dysphagia and were able to tolerate general diet by discharge on POD1. 1 patient experienced dysphagia and increased neck swelling on POD0 due to a hematoma. Patient underwent an incision and drainage and symptoms resolved by POD1. Patient was discharged in stable condition on POD2.
Urinary retention: 1 patient had postoperative urinary retention on POD0 with a postvoid residual volume >500 mL. Foley was placed on POD0. Patient placed on Flomax and voided by discharge on POD1.
Hematoma: 2 patients had a cervical hematoma on POD0 and underwent an emergent incision and drainage, which resolved symptoms. 1 patient was safely discharged to home on POD3 and another patient was discharged safely home on POD2. No other complications were noted.
Altered mental status: 1 patient was unresponsive on POD0 and received Narcan. Neurology consult placed on POD1 with unremarkable findings. Patient discharged to home safely on POD2.
  • POD, postoperative day.