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Total Thyroidectomy

Surgical removal of the entire thyroid gland.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Total Thyroidectomy?

Total thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure in which both lobes of the thyroid gland and the isthmus are removed completely. It is preferred in thyroid cancer, large goiter causing significant symptoms, toxic multinodular goiter, or Graves' disease.

Preservation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands are the cornerstones of a successful thyroidectomy. In modern surgery, intraoperative nerve monitoring and loupe magnification are used routinely.

The most common postoperative complications are hypocalcemia (transient or permanent) and hoarseness. Patients require lifelong levothyroxine treatment.

Symptoms

Anterior neck enlargement
Difficulty swallowing
Shortness of breath and hoarseness
Detection of a thyroid nodule
Signs of thyrotoxicosis
Diagnosis of thyroid cancer
Cosmetic concerns

Risk Factors

History of head and neck radiation
Family history of thyroid cancer or MEN syndromes
Growing thyroid nodules
Graves' disease
Toxic multinodular goiter
Female gender
Living in iodine-deficient regions

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Goiter causing shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing
  • Rapidly growing or suspicious thyroid nodule
  • Hoarseness and respiratory symptoms
  • Hyperthyroidism resistant to medical treatment
  • Thyroid nodule with pathological lymph node

Treatment Methods

01
Preoperative ultrasound, fine-needle biopsy, and laryngeal evaluation
02
Intraoperative nerve monitoring
03
Complete capsular dissection of both lobes
04
Preservation or autotransplantation of parathyroid glands
05
Central and if necessary lateral neck dissection in cancer
06
Postoperative calcium monitoring and levothyroxine treatment

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.