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Minimally Invasive Thyroidectomy - Thyroid Surgery

Thyroid disorders, can be addressed through both surgical and non-surgical interventions, tailored to the severity of symptoms. Thyroidectomies, a key surgical approach, involve the removal of all or part of the thyroid gland. Dr. Jason Cohen of the Surgery Group of Los Angeles specializes in minimally invasive thyroidectomy. This procedure is often recommended for various thyroid disorders, such as thyroid cancer, large goiters, or persistent hyperthyroidism. If you've been diagnosed with any of these conditions, contact SGLA to schedule an appointment for treatment options.
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What is a Thyroidectomy?

A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or a portion of the thyroid gland is removed. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating various metabolic processes in the body. A thyroidectomy is typically performed to treat conditions such as thyroid cancer, large goiters, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), or other thyroid disorders that haven’t responded to other treatments.
The procedure is conducted under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes an incision in the front of the neck to access the thyroid gland. The extent of the removal depends on the reason for the surgery. In a total thyroidectomy, the entire thyroid gland is removed, while in a partial or subtotal thyroidectomy, only a portion of the gland is taken out.

Types of Thyroidectomies?

Depending on the underlying cause of the surgery, there are several types of thyroid surgery that a surgeon may perform, including:

  • Lobectomy: The thyroid has two lobes joined in the middle with a fibrous tissue bridge called the isthmus. If the tumor is confined to only a small area, the surgeon may just remove the affected lobe. It allows for targeted intervention, reducing the impact on overall thyroid function while addressing specific concerns such as solitary thyroid nodules
  • Subtotal or Partial Thyroidectomy: This involves the removal of a portion of the thyroid gland while leaving a significant part intact. This approach is commonly chosen when the thyroid disorder is localized, and preserving thyroid function to some extent is deemed beneficial. Conditions such as thyroid nodules or goiters may be addressed with a partial thyroidectomy to alleviate symptoms while maintaining a degree of thyroid activity.
  • Total thyroidectomy: This is the most common surgery for thyroid cancer and the goal is to completely remove the thyroid gland and hopefully ensure that the cancer will not recur.

What to expect during a thyroidectomy?

If thyroid surgery is deemed the optimal treatment for your situation, gaining insight into what to anticipate can help alleviate any apprehensions. Recognizing that surgery can be an intimidating prospect for some patients, our priority is to ensure your comfort and tranquility leading up to the procedure.

Dr. Cohen, our highly skilled thyroid surgeon, specializes in minimally invasive thyroid surgery. In contrast to traditional thyroid surgeries that often result in noticeable neck marks, Dr. Cohen has refined the use of a small incision, minimizing postoperative self-consciousness.

Undergoing general anesthesia ensures you remain unconscious throughout the procedure, contributing to a more relaxed experience. Once you are under anesthesia, Dr. Cohen will make a small incision in the central part of your neck. Subsequently, a portion of your thyroid or the entire gland will be carefully removed. The duration of the procedure varies, typically lasting a few hours, contingent upon the specific type of surgery required. Our commitment is not only to the effectiveness of the surgery but also to your peace of mind throughout the entire process.

What to expect after a thyroidectomy?

Following the procedure, it’s common to encounter temporary effects such as a weakened or hoarse voice and neck discomfort, typically attributed to nerve irritation that can occur during surgeries. Despite these initial considerations, you can resume your normal eating and drinking habits, and there’s a possibility of being discharged on the same day. The postoperative care tailored to your specific situation will be determined by your surgeon.

Once discharged, you can generally resume routine activities within a week. However, it is advisable to refrain from engaging in strenuous activities for at least two weeks to support a smoother recovery process. This cautious approach ensures that you allow ample time for healing and minimize any potential strain on the affected areas.

Diagnosis & Screening

How are thyroid nodules diagnosed?

The process of diagnosing thyroid nodules involves a careful examination of symptoms, medical history, and specialized tests to determine their nature and potential impact on thyroid health.
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging studies
  • Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy
  • Molecular Testing
  • Imaging for staging (if cancer is suspected)
Treatment

How are thyroid nodules treated?

Addressing thyroid nodules involves a nuanced approach, where the chosen treatment strategy is shaped by factors such as the presence of symptoms and underlying cause.
  • Observation: Many small, non-cancerous nodules may require only regular monitoring to ensure stability.
  • Thyroid Hormone Therapy: Administering thyroid hormone replacement medication can regulate hormone levels, potentially shrinking certain types of nodules.
  • Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy: RAI therapy may be recommended for hyperfunctioning nodules or when thyroid cancer is present, using targeted radiation to address abnormal cells.
  • Thyroid Surgery (Thyroidectomy): Surgical removal of the thyroid gland may be necessary for larger nodules, suspicion of cancer, or if symptoms persist despite other treatments
Prognosis

What is the outlook for thyroid nodules?

The majority of thyroid nodules are benign, carrying a favorable outlook. For small, non-symptomatic nodules that are determined to be benign through biopsy, a watchful waiting approach may be recommended.
In cases where thyroid cancer is diagnosed, the outlook is shaped by factors such as the type of cancer, stage at diagnosis, and the effectiveness of treatment. Fortunately, many thyroid cancers, particularly papillary and follicular types, have a favorable prognosis when detected early

Parathyroid Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

What health issues can a parathyroid condition cause?

An overactive parathyroid gland may lead to high calcium levels, causing kidney stones, fatigue, cardiovascular issues and bone thinning.

What’s the difference between parathyroid glands and thyroid glands?

Although located near each other, the parathyroid glands regulate calcium levels, while the thyroid gland controls metabolism and energy.

What are the risks of leaving parathyroid disease untreated?

Without treatment, complications like severe bone loss, fractures, or kidney issues can develop.

What is minimally invasive parathyroid surgery?

It’s a targeted surgical procedure that uses small incisions, allowing quicker recovery and minimal scarring.

How quickly can I return to daily activities after parathyroid surgery?

Most patients resume normal activities within a few days, but it’s best to follow your surgeon’s specific recovery guidelines.

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Schedule a consultation with a Thyroid Surgeon Near Me

Seeking care from expert Thyroid Surgeons is essential for effective management. Our dedicated team of doctors are experienced in thyroid surgery and minimally invasive thyroidectomies, ensuring that you receive expert care tailored to your condition. We're here to answer your questions and guide you on your journey to better health.

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