Thyroid
at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN
Thyroid Surgery (Thyroidectomy)
When certain conditions interfere with normal thyroid production, surgical removal of the thyroid gland is performed. This is usually done when thyroid cancer has been detected, an otherwise benign thyroid nodule grows so large it causes problems, or hyperthyroidism (a disorder in which excess thyroid hormone is produced) does not respond to treatment with medications or radioactive iodine, though this is rare.
What Is Thyroid Surgery?
Thyroid surgery is known as a thyroidectomy. Two types of procedures are performed:
- Total thyroidectomy (removes the entire thyroid gland)
- Subtotal thyroidectomy (removes part of the gland)
Types of Thyroidectomy
Total Thyroidectomy
In a total thyroidectomy, the entire gland and surrounding lymph nodes are removed. The patient is given drugs to suppress thyroid hormone production, in addition to radioactive iodine.
Subtotal Thyroidectomy
A subtotal thyroidectomy involves removal of one complete gland and part of the other. This procedure is usually reserved for treating hyperthyroidism caused by
Grave’s disease.
How Effective Is Thyroid Surgery?
The effectiveness of any surgical thyroid procedure depends on the type of cancer present and how much it has spread. Overall, thyroid surgery is considered safe.
Possible Complications of Thyroid Surgery
As with most surgical procedures, thyroid surgery may lead to complications. These may include:
- Injury to the vocal cords and larynx (which could cause hoarseness, changes in the voice, and problems speaking or swallowing)
- Injury to the parathyroid glands (which could cause hypoparathyroidism, a separate condition in which too little parathyroid hormone is produced)
- Difficulty breathing
- Bleeding
- Infection
Call Allergy & ENT Associates at
(615) 889-8802
to learn more or schedule an appointment.