Thyroidectomy in Gurgaon

Thyroidectomy removes part or all of the thyroid gland in the neck. It treats goitre, suspicious nodules, overactive thyroid and thyroid cancer.

It may be recommended for: thyroid cancer; goitre pressing on the windpipe or food pipe, or causing a visible swelling; overactive thyroid not controlled by medicines or radioactive iodine; suspicious or troublesome thyroid nodules.

Under general anaesthesia, a cut is made low in the neck, placed to be as discreet as possible. Part of the gland (hemithyroidectomy) or the whole gland (total thyroidectomy) is removed, depending on the condition. If there is cancer, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed. The nerves to the voice box and the parathyroid glands are carefully protected.

Take the pain medicines as prescribed. Keep the wound clean and dry, and follow the dressing instructions. Increase activity gradually. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least two weeks. Rest your voice and avoid shouting for the first few days. Take calcium and vitamin D if prescribed. Come for a follow-up visit 1–2 weeks after surgery.

As with any operation, there are possible complications: bleeding, which occasionally needs treatment; infection, which may need antibiotics; low calcium from temporary or permanent effect on the parathyroid glands; temporary or permanent change in voice from effect on the vocal cord nerves; lifelong thyroid hormone tablets after total thyroidectomy. Your surgeon will discuss these with you before surgery.

The cut is placed in a natural neck crease and kept as small as possible, so it usually heals into a fine line.

Temporary hoarseness can happen. Permanent voice change is rare with an experienced surgeon.

No. It is also done for goitre, overactive thyroid, nodules and, occasionally, thyroid infection.

After total thyroidectomy you will need daily thyroid hormone tablets for life. After partial surgery many people do not.

The parathyroid glands next to the thyroid control calcium. If they are temporarily affected by surgery, calcium and vitamin D supplements keep levels normal while they recover.