Impact of SSKI Pre-Treatment on Blood Loss in Thyroidectomy for Graves Disease

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a brief course of SSKI (saturated solution of potassium iodide) administered preoperatively provides any benefit in the surgical management of patients undergoing thyroidectomy as definitive management of their Graves Disease.

Historically Potassium Iodide was given to patients for 1 week prior to thyroidectomy. This common practice was used to decrease thyroid function and prevent thyroid storm during the thyroidectomy. However, in modern practice, nearly all patients presenting for surgical management have been made euthyroid through the use of medications such as propylthiouracil. Despite this potassium iodine continues to be administered with the presumption that it decreases the friability of the gland making surgery easier, with less blood loss. The outcomes to be measured in this surgery are operative time, operative complications and blood loss.

8 drops of Potassium Iodide in a glass of water taken daily for 7 days prior to thyroidectomy. This is the current standard of care.

Inclusion Criteria: Adult patients with a clinical diagnosis of Graves Disease Patients who have selected surgical resection as treatment of their Graves Disease Prior use of anti thyroid medication so that patient is clinically and biochemically euthyroid Exclusion Criteria: Patients deemed unfit for surgery by operating surgeon or anesthesist Patients who are clinically hyperthyroid or have T3 or T4 levels 2X the upper limit of normal