Treatment

Thyroidectomy

Overview

A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of your thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of your neck. The thyroid produces hormones that control your body’s metabolism, energy levels, heart rate and more. People may need this surgery if they have thyroid cancer, large goiters, overactive thyroid or nodules that cause problems.

There are different types of thyroidectomy surgery, such as total thyroidectomy (removal of the entire thyroid), partial thyroidectomy or hemithyroidectomy (removal of part of the gland) and thyroid lobectomy (removal of one lobe). This treatment is carefully planned and carried out by specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Why Thyroidectomy Treatment is Required?

• To treat thyroid cancer or suspected cancer.
• To remove non-cancerous thyroid nodules or goiters that are large or causing discomfort.
• To manage hyperthyroidism when other treatments fail.
• When thyroid cysts repeatedly fill up with fluid and cause symptoms.
• If there is difficulty in swallowing or breathing due to an enlarged thyroid.
• To control hormone levels when overactive thyroid becomes dangerous.

Key Advantages of Thyroidectomy Treatment

• Permanent solution for conditions like thyroid cancer or severe hyperthyroidism.
• Relief from pressure symptoms like difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Prevention of cancer spread in case of confirmed thyroid malignancy.
• Improved quality of life by reducing symptoms of hormone imbalance.
• Removes nodules that may become cancerous in the future.
• Provides peace of mind with complete resolution of problematic thyroid conditions.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Thyroidectomy Treatment

• Share your full medical history and current medications with your doctor.
• Get the necessary blood tests and imaging (like ultrasound or scans).
• Follow a special diet or stop certain medications if advised.
• Ask your doctor what type of thyroid operation is planned, partial, total or lobectomy.
• Mentally prepare for a short hospital stay and post-surgery care.
• Arrange someone to accompany you and help during the thyroidectomy recovery period.

How Thyroidectomy Treatment is Performed?

• The procedure is done under general anesthesia.
• A small incision is made in the lower front of the neck.
• The surgeon carefully removes the thyroid gland or part of it, depending on your condition.
• Nearby structures like nerves and parathyroid glands are preserved.
• In some cases, thyroid cancer surgery may include removal of nearby lymph nodes.
• The incision is closed with sutures and the area is bandaged.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before the Procedure:
• Pre-surgery tests and health evaluation.
• Instructions about fasting and medication changes.
• Meeting with the anesthesiologist and surgical team.
• During the Procedure:
• You will be asleep under general anesthesia.
• The surgery usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
• Monitoring of vital signs throughout the procedure.
• After the Procedure:
• You will wake up in a recovery room under observation.
• Mild throat pain or hoarseness may occur.
• You might stay in the hospital for a day or two.
• Hormone replacement may be required if the entire thyroid is removed.
• Resume daily activities in a few days with some precautions.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Bleeding or infection at the surgical site.
• Temporary or permanent hoarseness due to nerve injury.
• Low calcium levels if parathyroid glands are affected.
• Scar formation in the neck area.
• Need for lifelong thyroid hormone replacement after total thyroidectomy.
• Risk of injury to nearby structures like voice box nerve or windpipe.

Results/Outcomes

• Most people recover well with minimal complications.
• Long-term cure is common in thyroid cancer surgery when diagnosed early.
• Hormone levels can be well managed with medication.
• Improvement in symptoms such as pressure in the neck or abnormal hormone levels.
• Regular follow-ups ensure stable health after thyroid removal surgery.