Thyroidectomy
Surgical care for nodules, goiters and cancer
Not all thyroid conditions require surgery. But when they do, our team of experienced ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons is here for you. We’re skilled in cutting-edge treatments, like thyroidectomies, to fix the problem and get you back on the road to better health.
What is a thyroidectomy?
Your thyroid gland is in the front of your neck. It produces hormones responsible for regulating your metabolism and a host of other bodily functions.
A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part (semithyroidectomy) or all of the thyroid gland when it’s medically necessary. The extent of the surgery depends on the underlying condition and reason for the procedure.
Reasons for a thyroidectomy
Thyroidectomy is typically recommended to treat thyroid disorders involving inflammation or some type of growth. We may recommend a thyroidectomy for these or other conditions:
- Goiter – enlarged thyroid gland that can impact the neck's appearance (a lump) or function (swallowing difficulty)
- Hyperthyroidism — overactive thyroid condition
- Thyroid cancer — malignant tumors that grow in the thyroid gland
- Thyroid nodules — benign (noncancerous) growths that can cause swallowing or breathing problems
- Thyroiditis — inflammation of the thyroid glands that causes discomfort
What to expect before and after a thyroidectomy
Even though any surgery can create some anxiety, you can rest easy knowing that we’re here for you every step of the way with personalized, compassionate care and attention.
Before your thyroidectomy, we’ll conduct a thorough assessment, including blood tests, imaging, and a consultation. You’ll receive preoperative instructions to help prepare you mentally and physically for the surgery. If you have questions or concerns, our team is available to provide answers, ensuring that you’re ready for the procedure.
After your thyroidectomy, you’ll be monitored closely after the operation. Upon discharge, you’ll receive a personalized recovery plan, including pain management, wound care, and guidance on resuming daily activities. You’ll have regular follow-up appointments with us to monitor your progress, ensuring a smooth recovery with optimal thyroid function.
You are always our top priority. At West Jefferson Medical Center, we’re dedicated to providing the expert care you deserve. Call us directly at 504.934.8550 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about your treatment options.
