Thyroidectomy
The thyroid gland is a tiny, butterfly-shaped structure in the lower part of the front of the neck. Thyroid gland removal (thyroidectomy) is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part or all the thyroid.
It plays a vital role in the body’s functions. It produces hormones and regulates the body’s temperature and metabolism. It supports the heart and digestive system and helps maintain muscle and bone health.
Thyroidectomy is a surgical treatment option for thyroid cancer. It is also the treatment option for other thyroid conditions, like thyroid nodules, goitre, and hyperthyroidism.
Risks Of Removing the Thyroid Gland:
Thyroidectomy is a safe procedure. But as with any surgery, thyroidectomy also carries a risk of certain complications.
Here are the complications:
- Bleeding: Sometimes bleeding can block your airway
- Infection
- Low levels of parathyroid hormone (hypoparathyroidism): Sometimes surgery damages the parathyroid glands located behind your thyroid
- Permanent hoarse voice due to nerve damage in the vocal cords
How do I prepare before the surgery to Remove the Thyroid Gland?
If your doctor confirms that you have hyperthyroidism, then you must use iodine and potassium solution. These medications will help control your thyroid function and lower the risk of bleeding after surgery.
To avoid anaesthesia complications, you may need to avoid eating and drinking for a certain amount of time before surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions.
Types of Thyroidectomies
- Conventional thyroidectomy: An incision is made in the centre of your neck to access your thyroid gland directly. Most of the patients will be candidates for this procedure.
- Transoral thyroidectomy: This type accesses the thyroid through an incision inside the mouth.
- Endoscopic thyroidectomy. This procedure uses smaller incisions near the neck. The surgical instruments and a small video camera are inserted through the incisions.
Recovery Post Removal of The Thyroid Gland:
Most people can return to their normal activities the day after the surgery. However, they must limit physical activities or sports for a few days or weeks.
- You might experience a sore throat for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) can be used. If the pain is severe, your doctor will prescribe another pain reliever.
- Post-surgery, your doctor will monitor your thyroid hormone and calcium levels to check for hypothyroidism or hypoparathyroidism
- You should notify your doctor if you experience hoarseness in the voice or difficulty breathing
