Since 2012, the Goitre Surgical Camp, organised by Dr Roberto Santoro in collaboration with surgeons from the University of Florence, has been a beacon of hope for patients in need of advanced thyroid care. The 2025 team included esteemed Surgeons namely: Dr Valentina Mancini, Dr Camila Bing, Dr Enrico Vallin, Dr Armando Blay. Anaesthesiologist present were Dr Alessandra Melai, and Dr Marco Luchini. Included was also Nurse Giovanni Gianno.
This year, the camp successfully screened 165 patients and performed surgeries on 67 overall. The surgeries mainly involved thyroidectomies and hyperthyroidism treatment. Other surgeries included cervical sebaceous cysts, thyroglossal cysts, cervical lipomas, cervical adenitis and lymphangioma.
With a blend of clinical precision and compassionate care, the camp also served as a vital platform for teaching surgical techniques to resident doctors, preparing them for future challenges in thyroid surgery and patient care.
Overcoming Unique Challenges in 2025
“This year presented a significant challenge for the team. Unlike previous years, the camp saw a surge in patients with hyperthyroidism, which demanded meticulous management of related conditions such as hypertension and bleeding,” Dr Valentina Mancini.
Although the surgeries themselves were well within the expertise of the team, ensuring optimal pre- and post-operative care required greater collaboration among team members.
“The collaboration between team members – surgeons, anesthesiologist, nurses and lacor’s personnel – creates a cohesive system that benefits everyone, especially the patients,” Dr Camila Bing
The inclusion of a new anaesthesiologist was pivotal to the camp’s success. This addition allowed for improved patient preparation, with close attention to stabilizing blood pressure and addressing coagulation issues through tailored therapy before surgery.
Innovation in Surgical Training and Patient Follow-Up
Beyond addressing immediate medical needs, the camp emphasized the importance of education and long-term patient care. Resident doctors honed their surgical skills under the guidance of experienced surgeons, making this an invaluable hands-on learning opportunity. The team also reinforced the importance of monitoring patients beyond the camp’s duration to ensure sustainable health outcomes.
To this end, the team outlined specific action items:
- Follow-Up Care: Patients who underwent total thyroidectomies will receive follow-up calls next month to review their therapy progress and address emerging issues.
- Enhanced Training for Residents: Surgical techniques and best practices will continue to be a focal point for developing the next generation of skilled thyroid surgeons.
- Comprehensive Patient Care: A critical objective is ensuring all screened patients receive surgery within the camp’s timeframe.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Plans for long-term follow-up and monitoring of health outcomes.
Looking Ahead
Despite this year’s challenges, the surgeons expressed satisfaction with the camp’s organization and equipment at the hospital. Their commitment to prioritizing the patient and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration proved to be a winning strategy. As the camp enters its next decade, the foundation built over the past 13 years provides a strong platform for continued success.
The 2025 Goitre Surgical Camp stands as a testament to the transformative power of dedication, teamwork, and education in the medical field. Through overcoming obstacles and embracing innovation, the surgeons and medical staff have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to improving lives, one patient at a time.
