Thyroidectomy
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MEDICAL ANIMATION TRANSCRIPT: If you have thyroid problems, your doctor may recommend a thyroidectomy. Your thyroid gland is located above your larynx, or voice box. It is surrounded by the trachea (windpipe). The thyroid produces a hormone called thyroid hormone and secretes it directly into the bloodstream. Your body uses thyroid hormone to increase your energy and raise your body temperature when needed. For example, these effects help reduce the heat your body loses when exposed to cold weather. Your doctor may recommend a thyroidectomy if you have certain types of thyroid cancer, an enlarged gland called a vociositol, benign nodules, cysts, or an overactive thyroid. Before surgery, an IV line will be inserted. You may receive antibiotics through an IV to reduce the risk of infection. You will be given general anesthesia. A breathing tube will be inserted through your mouth and throat to help you breathe during the operation. To begin, your surgeon will make a small horizontal incision in your neck. Depending on the reason for your surgery, your surgeon will remove a lobe of your thyroid or the entire gland. Your surgeon may place a surgical drain in your incision to remove excess fluid. The drain will remain in place for a day or two. At the end of the procedure, the incision is closed with sutures, staples, surgical glue, or bandages. After surgery, the breathing tube will be removed, and you will be taken to the recovery area for monitoring. Your surgeon may check your larynx for injuries. You will be given pain medication if needed. You may continue to receive antibiotics through an IV. Most patients are discharged from the hospital one or two days after the procedure. Your doctor may prescribe calcium supplements. If your entire thyroid gland is removed, you will need to take thyroid hormone replacement medication daily.
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