ObjectiveTo compare the clinical efficacy of endoscopic thyroidectomy via breast approach and open thyroidectomy for multiple nodular goiter. MethodsBetween September 2010 and March 2013, a total of 138 patients with multiple nodular goiter were divided into two groups based on even or odd number. Patients in the endoscopy group (n=69) had a mean age of 38.3 years and they underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy via breast approach, while patients in the open group (n=69) had a mean age of 36.8 years and underwent open thyroidectomy. Surgery time, blood loss, pain and drainage, as well as postoperative complications were compared between these two groups. ResultsSurgery time in the endoscopy group was significantly longer than that in the open group (P<0.05). Blood loss in the endoscopy group was significantly less than that in the open group (P<0.05). Scores of pain at different times in the endoscopy group were significantly lower than those in the open group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in drainage and duration of drainage between the two groups (P>0.05). There were no significant differences in incidence of transient hypocalcemia, hypoparathyroidism and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury between the two groups (P>0.05). ConclusionEndoscopic thyroidectomy via breast approach and open thyroidectomy are both effective and safe procedures for multiple nodular goiter. However, endoscopic thyroidectomy via breast approach is superior to open thyroidectomy in reducing blood loss, relieving pain with excellent cosmetic results.