Thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or part of the thyroid gland is removed. Surgery may be necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of various thyroid diseases, such as hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroid nodules of unclear nature (to clarify whether they are benign or malignant), inflammatory diseases of the thyroid gland, and cancers.
Referral to thyroid surgery is always done by an endocrinologist and after which the patient can choose the treatment facility and the surgeon who will perform the operation. Subsequent follow-up and replacement therapy is carried out by the endocrinologist.
Whether the thyroid gland is partially or completely removed depends on the specific medical condition and sometimes on the patient’s preference. When the thyroid gland is completely removed, lifelong thyroid hormone therapy is always required.
Operation at Amsel Clinic
Operation is performed under general anesthesia. A small incision is done on the front of the neck above the collarbones. The surgeon removes part or all of the thyroid gland. If necessary, the surgeon also removes lymph nodes or other nearby tissues. The surgical wound is always closed with an absorbable intradermal suture. All removed tissues are sent to histological examination.
Recovery
Most patients can go home the day of the operation or the next day. Recovery and wound healing are generally fast and usually patients return to work or exercise 1 to 3 weeks after surgery. Hoarseness, swelling of the neck or discomfort when swallowing may occur during the recovery period, but these symptoms usually resolve within 4-6 weeks.