What is a thyroidectomy?
The thyroidectomy involves the surgical removal of the thyroid. The ablation can be total, subtotal or partial depending on the original pathology. Likewise, the operation can be performed with or without cleaning. Thyroidectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia, but some techniques forhypnosis also allow a non-drug operation.
What are the indications for a thyroidectomy?
Thyroid ablation is indicated in various thyroid disorders related either to dysfunction or to a foreign body. Surgery may be indicated for all thyroid nodules larger than 25mm. In the case of nodules of smaller size, they are monitored regularly and intervention is considered when these are of doubtful character. The operation is also inevitable when the nodule is hot or poisonous. Thyroidectomy is also performed for multinodular goiter. The indication for surgery is generally retained because of the size of the nodules, their suspicious nature or the size of the goiter itself. Surgery is inevitable when the goiter threatens to grow towards the chest or when it compresses the windpipe or esophagus. THE’thyroid removal is also inevitable when diagnosed with cancer. However, if operated on in time, this cancer has a very good prognosis. Less known, the Graves’ disease is also a formal indication for surgery. It is an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism and mainly affects women.
How is a thyroidectomy performed?
The thyroidectomy is a common surgical operation. It is usually performed under general anesthesia. The incision is horizontal and is located in one of the folds of the neck. Over time, it becomes almost invisible. The gland is removed, taking care to leave the parathyroid glands located behind. A drain is placed to evacuate any blood collections. The operation lasts an average of 40 to 90 minutes.
Does a thyroidectomy hurt?
Removal of the thyroid is not an operation known for its pain. When leaving the operating room, it is managed by the anesthesiologist in collaboration with the surgeon. During the first hours, the effects of the anesthesia are still felt and the pain is almost non-existent. When the operated area is fully awake, the pain is similar to that of a strong angina.
What are the complications of a thyroidectomy?
The thyroidectomy is one of the operations with the fewest complications. After the trauma of the operation, in rare cases, the parathyroid glands may temporarily stop functioning. This condition is transient and can be corrected by taking calcium. Usually, treatment does not exceed 21 days. During the operation, the recurrent nerve can be damaged. This can cause paralysis of the corresponding vocal cord. This trauma is transitory. Extremely rare, it happens that a compressive hematoma forms in the hours which follow the intervention. This complication is the only one that induces a vital emergency and requires a new operation. As with any operation, wound infection can occur. It is exceptional and not serious.
What are the postoperative consequences of a thyroidectomy?
If the operation goes well, the drain is removed within 24 to 48 hours and food can be resumed the day after the operation. Discharge usually occurs within 3 days. The scar is left in the open but must not be wet for a minimum of 10 days. From thyroid hormones are generally prescribed. Treatment should be continued for life.
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