Thyroidectomy (thyroid gland removal)

Surgery is usually needed when suspicious nodules or swelling appear. These symptoms can be associated with disorders such as cancer or a noncancerous enlargement of the thyroid (goiter). An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) which produces too much of the hormone thyroxine can also be treated with thyroidectomy when anti-thyroid drugs or radioactive iodine therapy are not an option for some reason.

• Partial thyroid gland removal
  When a nodule, inflammation, or swelling affects only one side of the thyroid gland, doctors usually remove only one of the two lobes (thyroid lobectomy). The part left behind should retain some or all of its function.
• Near total (subtotal) thyroid removal
  A subtotal thyroidectomy removes the thyroid gland but leaves behind some thyroid tissue to preserve a degree of thyroid function. Many individuals who undergo this type of surgery develop hypothyroidism, a condition which occurs when the thyroid galnd doesn’t produce enough hormones. They can easily be supplemented with a daily dose of thyroid hormone.
• Total thyroidectomy
  A total thyroidectomy removes the entire thyroid gland including all thyroid tissue. This surgery is appropriate when nodules, swelling, or inflammation affect the entire thyroid gland, or when cancer is present. If your entire thyroid gland is removed, you will need a daily dose of thyroid hormone supplement for the rest of your life to replace the hormones previously produced by your thyroid gland.

Similarly to other major surgeries, thyroidectomy carries the risk of an adverse reaction to the general anesthetic. Other risks include infection, bleeding, and a permanently weak or hoarse voice. Some patients develop hypoparathyroidism as a complication.

A total thyroidectomy is the only solution which gives patients immediate relief from the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Another case when surgery is the only viable option is when hyperthyroidism is caused by a so-called hot nodule. A hot nodule (also known as a toxic nodule) is best described as a thyroid nodule in overdrive producing excess thyroid hormone. This happens when a nodule doesn’t obey the pituitary gland’s signals to stop producing thyroid, resulting in hyperthyroidism. Depending on the location of the nodule, the surgeon can remove the lobe that contains the hot nodule. This leaves part of your thyroid intact, which will usually be enough to supply your body with healthy amounts of hormones.

Please note that at Medicover Hospital we do not operate on cancerous enlargements of the thyroid gland.

It is very important that thyroid function be properly regulated. Therefore, you and your endocrinologist will work closely together to set your thyroid to healthy levels prior to the operation.

A day after the surgery the drain will be removed from your neck. A blood test will be performed to determine your blood calcium levels.

After the surgery you will most likely need to take a daily dose of thyroid hormone in order to replace the hormones normally produced by your thyroid gland and keep your body working properly. It may take several appointments and repeated blood tests to adjust your hormone levels and determine the appropriate dosage of your medication.

Regular post-operative follow-ups are very important to make sure your metabolism is working properly. Your doctor will be closely monitoring the dosage of your medication. He or she might make adjustments if necessary.