THYROID SURGERY (THYROIDECTOMY)

What is the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the center of your neck. It produces thyroid hormones that regulate many different body functions and activities, such as metabolism and growth. Thyroid surgery is sometimes necessary when other treatments have failed to provide relief or when thyroid cancer or nodules are present.

Thyroid Gland Nodules

Thyroid nodules are growths that can form within the thyroid gland and vary in size. The nodules may be harmless, but they should always be evaluated by a doctor to ensure they pose no health risk. If thyroid nodules are large or growing, thyroid surgery may be recommended to remove them.

Thyroid Gland Cancer

Thyroid cancer is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Surgery is typically the first step in treatment for thyroid cancer, and will involve the complete or partial removal of affected thyroid tissue. Depending on the type and stage of thyroid cancer present, additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be necessary after thyroid surgery.

Thyroid Surgery Procedure

The procedure involves removing part or all of the thyroid gland, depending on the individual situation. This can be done through traditional open surgery or with minimally invasive endoscopic techniques. During thyroid surgery, we will take measures to protect nearby tissues and organs from damage due to radiation exposure during treatment. After thyroid surgery, some patients may need hormone replacement therapy for life to ensure their bodies receive adequate levels of thyroid hormones

Different Types of Surgery

Thyroid surgery, or thyroidectomy, can be performed using a variety of techniques, depending on the condition being treated. The most common thyroid removal surgeries are:

• Thyroid lobectomy (removal of part or all of one thyroid lobe)

• Total thyroidectomy (removal of an entire thyroid gland or major portion of it)

• Thyroid lobule resection ( removal of one or more small thyroid gland nodules)

• Isthmusectomy (removal of the tissue that is between the two thyroid lobes)

In some cases, radiation may be used in lieu of thyroid surgery. Depending on the patient’s medical needs, these treatments can be combined to provide maximum benefit. Thyroid surgery is an important procedure for those suffering from thyroid-related medical issues. Surgical removal is a minimally invasive procedure with relatively low risks, and can help restore thyroid gland function to normal levels. While there may be some discomfort after the surgery, the results are almost always worth it for those who undergo this procedure. It requires specialized knowledge and skill to perform this procedure properly, which is why it’s important to choose a thyroid surgeon who has extensive experience with the condition like our doctors here at NJ ENT.