Background: Endoscopic thyroidectomy (ET) and robotic thyroidectomy (RT) yield similar perioperative outcomes. This study investigated how the learning curve (LC) affects perioperative outcomes between ET and RT, identifying factors that influence the LC. Materials and methods: Two researchers individually searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for relevant studies published until February 2024. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale assessed study quality. A random-effects model was used to compute the odds ratio and weighted mean difference (WMD). Poisson regression comparison of the number of surgeries (N _LC ) was required for ET and RT to reach the stable stage of the LC. Heterogeneity was measured using Cochran’s Q. Publication bias was tested using funnel plots, and sensitivity analysis assessed findings robustness. Subgroup analysis was done by operation type and patient characteristics. Results: This meta-analysis involved 33 studies. The drainage volume of ET was higher than that of RT (WMD=−17.56 [30.22, −4.49]). After reaching the N _LC , the operation time of ET and RT was shortened (ET: WMD=28.15 [18.04–38.26]; RT: WMD=38.53 [29.20–47.86]). Other perioperative outcomes also improved to varying degrees. Notably, RT showed more refined central lymph node resection (5.67 vs. 4.71), less intraoperative bleeding (16.56 ml vs. 42.30 ml), and incidence of transient recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (24.59 vs. 26.77). The N _LC of RT was smaller than that of ET (incidence-rate ratios [IRR]=0.64 [0.57–0.72]). CUSUM analysis (ET: IRR=0.84 [0.72–0.99]; RT: IRR=0.55 [0.44–0.69]) or a smaller number of respondents (ET: IRR=0.26 [0.15–0.46]; RT: IRR=0.51 [0.41–0.63]) was associated with smaller N _LC . In RT, transoral approach (IRR=2.73 [1.96–4.50]; IRR=2.48 [1.61–3.84]) and retroauricular approach (RAA) (IRR=2.13 [1.26–3.60]; IRR=1.78 [1.04–3.05]) had smaller N _LC compared to bilateral axillo-breast and transaxillary approach (TAA). In ET, the N _LC of RAA was smaller than that of TAA (IRR=1.61 [1.04–2.51]), breast approach (IRR=1.67 [1.06–2.64]), and subclavian approach (IRR=1.80 [1.03–3.14]). Conclusions: Rich surgical experience can improve surgical results of ET and RT. After reaching the N _LC , the perioperative outcomes of RT are better than those of ET. Study subjects, surgical approaches, and analysis methods can affect N _LC .

Evidence suggests a potential link between metabolic dysfunction and head and neck cancer (HNC). This study investigates the potential causal relationships between metabolic dysfunction and HNC using genetic data. While no significant causal associations were identified between metabolic indicators and HNC risk, the research revealed that inhibition of certain genes could reduce cancer risk. Specifically, inhibiting sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 (SLC5A2) was associated with a decreased risk of HNC and oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), while ATP-sensitive inward rectifier potassium channel 11 inhibition was linked to a reduced risk of oral cavity cancer. Additionally, inhibiting SLC5A1 and voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel subunit beta-2 showed a connection to lower OPC risk. These findings suggest that targeting these genes could offer promising therapeutic strategies for preventing and treating HNC, as well as improving both preoperative and postoperative management in affected patients.

Background: Tumors are a major threat to human life and health. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have become a research focus in this context, especially regarding their role in tumor progression. Since the concept of NETs was introduced in 2004, its implications for tumor research have attracted significant scholarly attention. This study aims to explore research trends and cutting-edge hotspots in NETs and tumors through bibliometric analysis and provide new ideas for clinical applications. Methods: We searched for literature on NETs and tumors published between 2004 and 2023 using the Web of Science database. Microsoft Excel 2019 was used for statistical analysis of influential articles, journals, authors, organizations, countries, and co-cited references. VOSviewer (version 1.6.16) and CiteSpace (V.5.8.R3) were employed for visualizing research data. Results: The analysis covered 790 articles authored by 4768 individuals from 1134 organizations in 56 countries. China and the United States are the leading contributors. The mechanism of NETs in tumor occurrence and development is likely linked to coagulation, inflammation, and infection. Hot topics in research include dendritic cells and thrombosis, with a shift from laboratory studies to clinical applications, suggesting a growing focus on treatment over etiology. Conclusion: This study offers the most comprehensive bibliometric analysis of NETs and tumors to date. Future research may focus on developing targeted therapies that block the interaction between NETs and tumors, offering a new direction for cancer treatment.