[Substernal goiter].

In a series of 363 patients operated for goiter, 60 were retrosternal (16.5%). The female incidence although less than in cervical goiters remains predominant (2.5:1). Most patients are in older age group, 68% being above 40 years. The majority of goiters are multinodular and of long duration. Bilateral (37%) and left sided location (43%) were common. The incidence of cancer was 7%, thyrotoxicosis was noted in 5 patients (8%). Most patients were symptomatic (97%). Diagnosis is easily done by physical examination, chest X-ray and thyroid scintigraphy. Computed tomography might be helpful. Retrosternal goiter is an indication to surgery except in high risk patients. The cervical approach has been used in 98% of cases. There were no post-operative death and no major complications (compressive hematoma, laryngeal nerve paralysis, hypocalcemia).