Thyroid Removal

Thyroid removal is surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland located at the base of the neck. This procedure, technically known as thyroidectomy, is performed to treat a range of thyroid disorders. Whether all or part of the thyroid gland is removed will reflect the reason for the surgery.

Am I a candidate for thyroid removal in Mount Vernon, Centralia and Herrin, IL?

It may be medically necessary in some cases to remove all or part of the thyroid. Your doctor may recommend thyroid removal if you have:

Thyroid cancer: This is the most common reason for thyroid removal surgery.
Hyperthyroidism: For some people, the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. Thyroidectomy may be a treatment option in these cases.
Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid (goiter) can be uncomfortable, may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing, and may cause hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid nodules: A needle biopsy may be scheduled to determine if thyroid nodules are cancerous or noncancerous. However, some nodules cannot be identified either way with a needle biopsy. In such a case, the doctor may recommend thyroid removal.

Why choose Advanced Surgical Technology for thyroid removal?

It is our mission to provide the highest level of surgical and nonsurgical care. We offer top-level technical skills and outstanding, comprehensive care in general surgery, vascular surgery, primary care, and aesthetics. Dr. Liyanage, our board-certified surgeon, uses some of the world’s most advanced, less invasive surgical systems and is deeply committed to every patient he treats.

What should I expect with thyroid removal surgery?

Thyroidectomy is usually performed with general anesthesia, so you will not be conscious during the procedure. It takes approximately one to two hours. In conventional thyroid removal, the surgeon makes an incision low in the center of your neck, through which all or part of your thyroid gland is removed. The incision can be skillfully placed in a skin crease to be less visible when it heals. If your thyroid is being removed to treat cancer, the doctor may examine and remove lymph nodes around the gland.

What is recovery like after thyroid removal?

You will need to recover from the anesthesia after surgery. Depending on the type of procedure you undergo, you may be allowed to go home the same day or may need an overnight hospital overnight. You may experience some neck pain or a hoarse or weak voice. These symptoms are usually short term. You should be able to drink and eat as usual and return to normal activities when you go home. Avoid strenuous activities for 10 to 14 days after surgery.

FAQ

Are there different techniques for thyroid removal?

Yes, there are several different surgical approaches to thyroid removal:

Endoscopic: This less invasive approach requires smaller incisions. An endoscope (flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end) and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions. The camera transmits images to an external screen to guide the surgeon through the procedure.
Transoral: In this approach to thyroidectomy, an incision is made inside the mouth to avoid an incision in the neck.
Conventional: The surgeon makes an incision in the center of the neck to access the thyroid gland directly. Most people who require thyroid removal are candidates for the conventional approach.

How should I prepare for thyroid removal?

Our surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how long before surgery to refrain from eating or drinking (to avoid anesthesia complications). If the condition being addressed is hyperthyroidism, your doctor may prescribe medications in advance of surgery to control thyroid function and lower bleeding risk. If you are allowed to return home the same day of surgery, you will need to have someone there to drive you home.

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