PROCEDURES Thyroidectomy
The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland situated at the base of the neck that produces hormones involved in regulating every aspect of metabolism, from heart rate to how quickly calories are burnt. A thyroidectomy or thyroid lobectomy is the surgical removal of all of or part of the thyroid gland respectively. This may be necessary for the following reasons:
- To treat an over-active thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- To treat symptomatic obstructions caused large goiters or thyroid nodules
- To remove noncancerous enlargement of the thyroid (goiter)
- To remove thyroid cancer
What does a thyroidectomy involve?
Depending on the indications for the surgery, a thyroidectomy can be total or partial in which only a single lobe or portion of a lobe is removed. A thyroidectomy can be done through open surgery, through the mouth or endoscopically. Using the open approach, once you are under general anaesthesia, Dr Kruger will make a small incision in the front of the neck, in a skin crease where it will be difficult to see after the incision heals. From this angle your surgeon can access the thyroid gland directly. He will then remove either the entire thyroid gland or part of it before closing the incision with stitches.
What can I expect for recovery?
After surgery you can expect to have some pain near your incisions and in your neck. You may also have a sore, hoarse throat for a few days after surgery. You may need to stay in hospital overnight for observation. You may also have a drain placed in your incision. This helps with healing and will be removed in a day or two. You can expect to return to your normal activities in a week or two. Be sure to refrain from any vigorous exercise or heavy lifting for at least 3 weeks.
If a total thyroidectomy was done you may need replace your thyroid’s function with daily treatment of thyroid hormone.
