Thyroid Surgery

Thyroid surgery is a medical procedure that involves the partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck and produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. This surgery is performed for a variety of reasons, including thyroid cancer, hyperthyroidism, and large thyroid nodules that cause symptoms or are suspicious for cancer.

Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a series of tests, including blood tests, a thyroid ultrasound, and sometimes a biopsy to determine the nature of the thyroid nodule or cancer. They may also undergo a thyroid scan or other imaging tests to evaluate the extent of the disease.

On the day of the surgery, the patient will be given general anesthesia and placed in a lying position with their neck extended. The surgeon will make an incision in the front of the neck, usually following a natural crease, and carefully dissect the thyroid gland from the surrounding tissue, taking care to avoid damaging the nearby nerves and blood vessels. If only a portion of the thyroid is being removed, the surgeon will carefully identify and preserve the functioning parts of the gland.

Once the thyroid gland has been removed, the surgeon will carefully close the incision with sutures or staples, and the patient will be taken to a recovery area to wake up from the anesthesia. Most patients can go home the same day or the day after the surgery, although they will need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks while the incision heals.

Complications from thyroid surgery are rare but can include bleeding, infection, damage to the vocal cords or parathyroid glands, and temporary or permanent hoarseness or difficulty speaking. Most patients experience some pain and swelling after the surgery, but this can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.

After the surgery, patients will need to take thyroid hormone replacement medication to replace the hormones that were previously produced by the thyroid gland. They will also need to have regular follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor their thyroid function and ensure that there are no signs of recurrence or complications from the surgery.