PURPOSE: This clinical trial is studying how well bipolar energy sealing system and ultrasonic coagulation for hemostasis during thyroidectomy reduce blood loss and hypocalcemia, as well as which device is the most cost-effective approach for thyroidectomy.
RATIONALE: The use of bipolar energy sealing system or ultrasonic coagulation for hemostasis during thyroidectomy may reduce blood loss and hypocalcemia and may be more cost-effective.