Abstract
Background/Objectives: Post-hemithyroidectomy hypothyroidism is a recognized complication, though its incidence and risk factors remain variably reported. This study aimed to determine the incidence of hypothyroidism post-hemithyroidectomy, identify associated risk factors, and assess temporal changes in thyroid hormone levels. Methods: This retrospective analysis examined the records of 192 euthyroid patients who underwent hemithyroidectomy between January 2019 and May 2023. Thyroid function was assessed preoperatively and at 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to evaluate the time to hypothyroidism onset and identify significant predictors. Results: At 1 month postoperatively, a higher incidence was observed in elderly patients (>65 years; 31.11%) and those aged 56-65 years (29.54%), compared to younger age groups (7.69% in patients aged 18-35 years). The incidence decreased over time, with 14.06% and 10.94% of patients being hypothyroid at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Severe obesity was associated with the highest hypothyroidism rates across all follow-up periods, particularly at 1 month (50.00%). Elevated BMI was also associated with increased risk, particularly in overweight patients (HR = 2.368, 95% CI 1.016-5.523). Patients undergoing left-sided hemithyroidectomy had a higher incidence of hypothyroidism at 12 months compared to right-sided hemithyroidectomy patients (15.63% vs. 6.25%, p = 0.037). Cox regression analysis confirmed diabetes and BMI (overweight) as significant predictors of hypothyroidism. Conclusions: Hypothyroidism is a common complication following hemithyroidectomy, particularly in elderly and overweight patients. The significant early onset of thyroid dysfunction underscores the need for routine postoperative monitoring, especially within the first year.