Thyroid surgery

Thyroid surgery is performed under general anesthesia (full anesthesia). Most often, during the operation, both lobes of the thyroid gland, containing disturbing changes, i.e. nodules, are removed almost completely, leaving a small amount of thyroid tissue on its posterior surface adjacent to the trachea – then we are talking about subtotal thyroid resection. If the operating surgeon determines that there are changes in the thyroid gland that may be cancer, most often the thyroid lobe containing the lesion is completely removed – it is a total resection of the thyroid lobe.

The indications for the removal of a fragment or all of the thyroid gland are: the presence of a large goiter compressing the respiratory tract or causing an unfavorable cosmetic effect, the presence of a malignant tumor or suspicious nodules in the thyroid gland, goiter enlargement despite the use of appropriate medications, a significant degree of complicated hyperthyroidism.

If there are disturbances in thyroid hormone levels, please consult your doctor to establish a treatment strategy to normalize them prior to surgery. The tests ordered by the doctor should be performed immediately before the operation.

Strenuous physical exertion should be avoided immediately after surgery to prevent dehiscence and bleeding. In addition to hoarseness, you may feel pain in the area of the scar after the procedure – it is a harmless symptom and if it occurs, you should take painkillers prescribed by your doctor. The Patient will be informed about the date of the suture removal on the day of discharge. He also receives the necessary tips on nurturing the postoperative wound and general rules of conduct in the postoperative period. The cause of the thyroid disease is ultimately determined by microscopic examination of the thyroid tissue excised during surgery, i.e. histopathology. Only a histopathological examination can finally confirm or rule out the presence of thyroid cancer, and consequently determine further methods of treating the patient.

You should pay attention to disturbing symptoms such as persistent hoarseness, redness and leakage around the scar, the appearance of a fever above 38 degrees Celsius. In such cases, you must see a doctor. If the thyroid has been removed for cancer, regular oncological follow-up will be necessary. Besides, there are no special restrictions on daily activity or diet.