If you have recently been informed you need a thyroidectomy, you may have questions.
Here at the best head and neck clinic in the United States, we have an extensive knowledge in helping patients who are in need of going through thyroid gland surgery. You can put your trust in our doctors.
About the Thyroid
Your thyroid is located in your neck and is shaped like a butterfly. It is responsible for producing hormones necessary to regulate your metabolism. Everything from how fast your heart beats to how easily you can burn calories is due to your metabolism. Issues with the thyroid can lead to common issues such as hyperthyroidism and cancer. The reason behind your surgery will ultimately determine how much of your thyroid will need to be taken out.
Reasons For Thyroidectomy
There are a variety of reasons you may need to have the procedure done at the best head and neck clinic in the United States. The procedure may be necessary for conditions such as thyroid cancer, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), and goiters.
- Thyroid Cancer. The most common reason patients need to get a thyroidectomy is because of cancer. Removing most or all of your thyroid is typically the main course of treatment in this case and is the best bet at remission.
- Hyperthyroidism. Overactive thyroid issues are another common reason doctors at the best head and neck clinic in the United States may perform a thyroidectomy. With this condition, the glands in the thyroid are producing a higher amount than normal of the hormone known as thyroxine.
- Goiter. A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland that is noncancerous. If the goiter has become too large or is uncomfortable for a patient, a thyroidectomy is usually a treatment option. In some cases, the enlarged goiter leads to hyperthyroidism.
Risks of A Thyroidectomy
As with any procedure done at the best head and neck clinic in the United States, there are going to be some risks involved. However, we do everything in our power to keep those risks at a minimum. Some potential complications of the thyroidectomy may include infections, bleeding and a permanent weak or hoarse voice because of nerve damage. There is also a small chance of damage to your other glands which could lead to a condition called hypoparathyroidism. During the procedure, you will be put under general anesthesia and will be monitored closely by our surgical team.
Results Of Thyroidectomy
The actual long-term effects of the procedure will depend on how much of your thyroid needed to be removed. For a partial removal of your thyroid, the remaining portion of the gland will typically take over all functions and you may not need to take any thyroid hormone medicine. If you have to undergo a complete thyroid removal, your body will not be able to produce the hormones it needs and you will be prescribed a daily hormone replacement therapy.