The thyroid gland is located in the neck, in front of the upper part of the windpipe. It is shaped like a bow tie. It is one of the body’s important endocrine glands. It optimally regulates many basic functions such as body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and the rate and depth of breathing. When it is overactive (hyperthyroidism), symptoms such as a rapid pulse, weight loss, high blood pressure, increased appetite, nervousness, heat intolerance and hand tremors appear. When it is underactive (hypothyroidism), the opposite occurs: weight gain, fluid retention, sluggishness and lack of motivation. These conditions fall within the specialty of endocrinology, a branch of internal medicine.
“Nodules” may develop, especially in people over 40. These are dense clusters of cells within the thyroid gland. Their size can range from a few millimeters to 15–20 cm. They are more common in women. Having more than one of them is called goiter. Goiter is not related to whether the thyroid gland is underactive or overactive. Fewer than 5–10% of these nodules are cancerous.
Thyroidectomy (goiter surgery) is the removal of half or all of the thyroid gland when there are nodules known to be cancerous or with a high likelihood of cancer. If necessary, the lymph nodes in the neck are removed in the same session (neck dissection), and radioactive iodine therapy is given after surgery.
Goiter surgery can be performed by general surgeons or ear, nose and throat surgeons. It is performed under general anesthesia. During surgery, thyroid function should be within normal limits (euthyroid). If there is hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism before surgery, it is corrected with medication.
Complications that may occur after goiter surgery are hypocalcemia and vocal cord paralysis. Hypocalcemia may develop as a result of removal of 3 or more of the 4 parathyroid glands located behind the thyroid gland. Permanent hypocalcemia occurs in fewer than 3% of thyroidectomies. Calcium and parathyroid hormone supplements are given.
Although the likelihood of injury to the vocal cord nerve after thyroidectomy ranges from 0.3% to 14%, this rate drops below 1% when the surgery is performed by experienced surgeons. Patients experience hoarseness and/or shortness of breath. Its treatment requires various surgical techniques.
As in all surgery, KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE and TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT are essential for success in thyroid surgery.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
