Thyroid Surgery (Thyroidectomy)
Thyroid surgery, also known as thyroidectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones responsible for regulating metabolism, energy, and several important body functions.
Thyroidectomy may be recommended for conditions such as thyroid cancer, suspicious thyroid nodules, enlarged thyroid glands (goitre), or certain thyroid conditions that cause pressure or difficulty swallowing or breathing. Depending on the diagnosis, a surgeon may perform a partial thyroidectomy (lobectomy) or remove the entire thyroid gland.
When Is Thyroidectomy Recommended?
Your doctor may recommend thyroid surgery after evaluating your symptoms, thyroid function tests, ultrasound findings, and, when required, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy. The recommended procedure depends on the size, location, and nature of the thyroid problem.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
During thyroidectomy, the surgeon makes a carefully planned incision in the neck and removes the affected portion or the entire thyroid gland. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. In selected cases, nearby lymph nodes may also need to be removed.
Recovery After Thyroid Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and individual health. Patients may experience temporary neck discomfort, swelling, or a change in voice. If the entire thyroid is removed, lifelong thyroid hormone replacement medication is generally required.