Hemithyroidectomy : Curehealth

Hemithyroidectomy

Hemithyroidectomy, also known as a thyroid lobectomy or partial thyroidectomy is the removal of half of the thyroid gland.

Some facts about Hemithyroidectomy:

Hemithyroidectomy is performed to remove symptomatic or cancerous nodules.
Hyperthyroidism can also be treated by a hemithyroidectomy, particularly if a single toxic thyroid nodule growing on the thyroid gland causes the production of excess thyroid hormone.
The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland that secrets hormones that are released into the bloodstream, and act as messengers to affect cells and tissues in other parts of the body.
One of the lobes of the thyroid gland will be removed in Hemithyroidectomy which allows this tissue to be analyzed by the laboratory. No further action is taken if it is found to be benign.
The other half of the thyroid is taken out as well if the tissue is found to be malignant.
Hemithyroidectomy can be performed for cosmetic reasons when an enlarged thyroid cause a lump on the front of the neck.
An accurate diagnosis can be made by sending the specimen to the laboratory after removing the area of suspected cancer.

Specific instructions such as when to arrive and food/drink restrictions will be received from your physician for how to appropriately prepare for the procedure.
Medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) should be before and after surgery as these medications may increase bleeding.
Stop smoking if you smoke as smoking can increase your risk of having problems during and after surgery and also can slow the healing process.
Your vocal cords and their function will be checked by performing Nasoendoscopy.

Hemithyroidectomy is performed under general anesthesia while you are asleep.
A horizontal skin incision of about 4 to 6 centimeter will be made in one of the skin creases in the neck and the thyroid gland is reached by dissection to remove the lobe.
A catheter is inserted in a minority of patients to drain accumulated blood and fluids.
The incisions will be closed with stitches or sutures.
The risk of damage to voice can be reduced or avoided by monitoring your voice box during surgery.
You are monitored for a few hours after the surgery in the recovery room and will normally be able to return home the same day
You may have a temporary sore throat, neck pain, difficulty swallowing or a weak voice after the surgery.
Smoky, dry, or dusty atmospheres should be avoided after surgery.
Vigorous activities or activities that involve turning the head suddenly, such as driving and heavy lifting should be avoided for 1-2 weeks after surgery.
There will be a scar is on the front of the neck, but this often settles overtime to become a barely noticeable white line
Steri Strips are placed over the incision to help it heal.
Avoid taking any ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, aspirin, etc., as these medications may cause bleeding.
You should take Tylenol or the pain medication provided by your surgical team for pain.