Discover everything you need to know about Thyroidectomy, from the removal process to long-term results. Get informed on our blog today!
What Is a Thyroidectomy?
A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the thyroid gland, often recommended for patients with thyroid cancer, goiter, hyperthyroidism, or odd thyroid nodules. Options include total, partial, lobectomy, endoscopic, and robotic thyroidectomy, which require more than just a biopsy.
Reasons for Thyroid Gland Removal
Thyroid surgery is usually performed for several reasons:
- Thyroid cancer surgery is done to take out cancer in the thyroid.
- Goiter surgery is needed when the gland gets too big and causes issues.
- Thyroid nodule removal is done for nodules that look unclear or raise concerns.
- Hyperthyroidism surgery might be needed if medicines or radioactive iodine do not help.
Preparing for Thyroid Surgery
Thyroid surgery preparation involves imaging, lab tests, and a thyroid biopsy to confirm the need for the procedure. Surgeons also assess risks to nearby areas, including checking parathyroid glands and recurrent laryngeal nerves.
The Thyroidectomy Procedure
The thyroidectomy procedure usually involves making a thyroid incision at the bottom of the neck. In minimally invasive or scarless thyroidectomy methods, doctors use special tools that make scars less noticeable. The choice of method depends on the size and condition of the gland, as well as the surgeon’s skills.
Types of Thyroid Operations
- Total thyroidectomy: This means the entire gland is removed.
- Partial thyroidectomy: A section or a lobe of the gland is removed.
- Lobectomy: A single lobe of the thyroid is taken out.
- Robotic thyroidectomy: This is done with small cuts made away from the area.
Risks and Complications
Thyroid surgery is generally safe, but there are risks such as voice changes, low calcium levels, and potential complications like bleeding or infection. Surgeons closely monitor the parathyroid gland and nerves during the procedure to ensure its protection and safety.
Recovery and Post-Surgical Care
Thyroid surgery recovery typically takes a few days up to two weeks. After a thyroidectomy, the pain is often mild. Patients need to watch for signs of calcium imbalance or hoarseness. A scar from the thyroidectomy will be visible, but it will fade over time if you care for the wound properly.
Post-Thyroidectomy Function and Hormone Monitoring
Most patients need hormone replacement therapy, often levothyroxine, after a thyroidectomy. This therapy helps their metabolism work properly. It is important to keep a close eye on TSH levels after surgery to prevent hypothyroidism. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is key to managing thyroid function after the operation.
Life After Thyroid Removal
Life after thyroid surgery is often stable with proper medical care. Here are some important long-term things to keep in mind:
Track the long-term effects of thyroidectomy, including changes in mood, energy, and metabolism.
A diet after a thyroidectomy can aid in healing and maintain good calcium levels.
You can control weight gain after a thyroidectomy by balancing hormones.
Regular follow-ups after thyroidectomy are important to check for any problems and to adjust medication as needed.