Thyroidectomy

This surgical procedure is performed depending upon the cause for the surgery. Firstly, general anesthesia is administered that makes you unconscious during the surgery.

Your surgeon will assess your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood oxygen by connecting different monitors to your body. An antiseptic liquid will be used to clean the neck before making an incision to prevent the infection. Your surgeon makes a 3-4 inch incision on your neck. A two-inch incision is also made depending upon the surgery. After the incision, the surgeon will have direct access to the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is then removed. The total or partial thyroid gland is then removed depending upon the underlying cause. After removing the thyroid gland, the surgeon sutures the incision.

Risks associated with surgery

Bleeding – Bleeding during the surgery is a common complication.

Infection – Infection may occur during the surgery or after surgery.

Changes in the voice – Damage to the nerves of vocal cords and larynx during the surgery may cause hoarseness and weakness of voice along with difficulty in swallowing.

Airway obstruction – It is a rare complication that is seen after the surgery.

Hypocalcemia – Injury to the parathyroid hormones during the surgery decreases calcium levels.

Thyroid storm – Hyperthyroidism may occur which can be treated with hormones.

Post-operative care

After the surgery, you will be monitored for 24 hours

You may have drainage from your neck which will be reduced gradually

You should eat soft food to prevent excess pressure on the neck

You should take thyroid hormone daily for your whole life

Hoarseness or weakness in the voice is present which can be resolved

Pain medications can be taken to reduce the pain after surgery

After discharge, you should take sufficient rest. Keep your head raised while sleeping to avoid stress on the neck.

Keep the wound dry to prevent infections

Avoid strenuous activities that impose stress on the neck

Consult your physician if you experience pain, soreness, redness, swelling, and fever.