Near-infrared autofluorescence parathyroid imaging during total thyroidectomy to reduce the rate of postoperative hypoparathyroidism: A prospective two-center randomized clinical trial with a comprehensive long-term follow-up

The authors aimed to determine whether near-infrared autofluorescence imaging during total thyroidectomy could reduce the rate of postoperative hypoparathyroidism compared to standard techniques. In a randomized trial involving 189 patients, they found that while the autofluorescence method improved parathyroid gland identification, it did not significantly lower hypoparathyroidism rates at 3 and 12 months post-surgery. Overall, the study suggests that although the imaging technique has benefits in identifying glands, it does not translate into a reduction in hypoparathyroidism complications.