To compare same-day discharge and overnight (or longer) observation practices and learn more about the differences in patient preferences, safety outcomes, and economic and resource impact
Patients ≥18 years of age
Patients undergoing initial partial or complete thyroid lobectomy
English and non-English speaking patients are eligible
Increased risk of bleeding (e.g., Aspirin, antiplatelet therapy, or anticoagulation that cannot be held 5 days before surgery, baseline thrombocytopenia <50,000/µL)
Pre-existing medical comorbidities or poor performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status >2) that would otherwise dictate overnight in-hospital postoperative observation
Increased distance of residence from index hospital (>50 miles) or inability to stay within the targeted area (<50 miles) postoperatively prohibiting timely return to the index hospital in emergent situations
Lives alone or unable to independently perform Activities of Daily Living and no available caregiver in the immediate postoperative period (POD 0-3)