What Is a Thyroidectomy?

by | Jan 13, 2020 | Thyroid Conditions | 0 comments

A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure that is performed to remove all or part of the thyroid gland. Some of the most common reasons for performing a thyroidectomy include hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer or a goiter. Obstructions that cause problems with breathing or swallowing may also warrant surgical removal of the thyroid gland. If you suspect you have a problem with your thyroid or require medication to regulate your thyroid function, Las Vegas medical clinics can help you to find a cost effective treatment solution.

Operations that only remove the isthmus of the thyroid (the tissue band that connects the thyroid’s two lobes) are known as isthmectomies, and surgery to remove half of the thyroid are known as hemithyroidectomies. Surgical removal of the gland may be required to treat thyroid cancer, Graves’ disease, excessive thyroid production and thyroid nodules. The portion or amount that is removed will depend on your personal medical situation.

What Are the Risks of Thyroidectomies?

Some of the complications and risks that can arise from the procedure include a change in your voice (which may be temporary or permanent), low levels of calcium, infection and bleeding. If a total thyroidectomy is performed, the person usually requires lifelong thyroid hormone replacement to avoid you going through hypothyroidism.

How Do You Prepare for a Thyroidectomy?

You may be required to use medication containing potassium and iodine before your surgery to lower your chances of bleeding during the operation and to help regulate thyroid function. The surgery takes place under anesthetic, so your doctor may also request that you abstain from eating and drinking for a few hours beforehand.

The three types of thyroidectomies that are performed include endoscopic, conventional and robotic. An endoscopic thyroidectomy is performed with small incisions in the neck, and the surgeon inserts a small camera to help him navigate his way through the surgery. Conventional thyroidectomies are performed using an incision through the middle of the neck. Robotic thyroidectomies may be performed through incisions higher up in the neck, in the armpits or chest.

Once your surgery has been performed, you may need a drain under the incision. Your voice may be weaker or hoarse, and you may experience neck pain after the surgery because of the breathing tube that is used during surgery, but these symptoms usually fade away during the recovery phase.

low cost clinics in Las Vegas can help to determine the best way to deal with your thyroid problem and whether surgery is necessary or if you need medication.