Thyroidectomy

A thyroidectomy is the removal of all or part of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck. It produces hormones such as thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3) and calcitonin that regulate many aspects of your metabolism, from your heart rate to how quickly you burn calories. Thyroidectomy may be recommended to treat thyroid disorders. Thyroid cancer is the most common reason for this surgery, but it is also recommended in case of noncancerous enlargement of the thyroid (goitre) and overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). How much of the thyroid gland is removed depends on the reason for surgery. In case of a partial thyroidectomy, the remaining part of the thyroid may be able to function normally after surgery.  However, if a total thyroidectomy is necessary entire thyroid is removed, you need daily treatment with thyroid hormone.

The surgery

Depending on the reason for surgery, your surgeon may decide on different types of thyroidectomy. Total thyroidectomy involves the complete removal of the thyroid. This type of surgery is often used to treat thyroid cancer, but it may also be used to treat goitre and hyperthyroidism. If cancer is small, non-aggressive and contained to one side of the gland, your surgeon may decide to do a subtotal or partial thyroidectomy. These types of the surgery involve the removal of a part of the thyroid gland leaving some of the thyroid on one or both sides.

Surgeons use general anaesthesia during thyroidectomy. The surgeon makes an incision in the front of the neck, then pulls pack the skin and muscle to expose the thyroid gland. After removing all or part of the thyroid gland the incision is closed with stitches.

After surgery

A drain may be used to remove body fluids. It is usually taken out the day after surgery.  Patients are able to eat and drink as usual after surgery, but their throat may be sore and their voice hoarse. They may also experience neck pain. These symptoms are usually temporary. They may be caused by the breathing tube used during the surgery, or the nerve irritation caused by the surgery.

Complications and risks

Every surgery carries risks and complications. In case of a thyroidectomy potential complications include: bleeding, permanent hoarse or weak voice due to nerve damage, negative reaction to anaesthesia.

You can avoid most complications by choosing the right surgeon and following pre- and postoperative instructions.

TIME OF STAY

10 days (3 days in Hospital)