Complications of the operation should be rare (Fig. 17.53), and the only common problems are hypothyroidism (seen in fifteen per cent of cases) and recurrent hyperthyroidism. The frequency of hypothyroidism is less in areas of higher iodine intake, and that of recurrent hyperthyroidism greater than in less iodine-replete areas. The presence of recurrent upper pole nodules is a rare complication which may be associated with recurrent hyperthyroidism and which must be differentiated from malignancy.
