Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery: Expert Care for Your Endocrine Health
Welcome to our practice! Your thyroid and parathyroid glands play vital roles in regulating your body’s metabolism and calcium levels. When conditions affecting these glands require surgery, you can trust us to provide expert, compassionate care. Below, we offer an overview of thyroid and parathyroid gland removal procedures, why they’re performed, and what you can expect.
The Role of the Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands
- Thyroid Gland: Located at the base of the neck, the thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and other essential bodily functions.
- Parathyroid Glands: Four small glands located near the thyroid, they regulate calcium levels in the blood and bones.
Why Surgery May Be Necessary
Thyroid Surgery
Thyroidectomy, or thyroid gland removal, may be recommended for conditions such as:
- Thyroid nodules or goiters: Enlarged or suspicious growths that may affect breathing or swallowing.
- Thyroid cancer: To remove cancerous tissue and prevent its spread.
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
Parathyroid Surgery
Parathyroidectomy, or parathyroid gland removal, is typically performed to treat:
- Hyperparathyroidism: Overactive parathyroid glands that cause high calcium levels, leading to bone loss, kidney stones, or other complications.
Our Approach to Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery
We use advanced surgical techniques to ensure the safest, most effective outcomes with minimal recovery time.
Thyroidectomy
- Partial thyroidectomy: Removal of part of the thyroid gland, preserving some hormonal function.
- Total thyroidectomy: Complete removal of the gland, usually requiring lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Parathyroidectomy
- Focused parathyroidectomy: Removal of the specific overactive gland, often guided by preoperative imaging.
- Four-gland exploration: Examination and treatment of all four glands when necessary.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Whenever possible, we utilize minimally invasive approaches, such as small incisions and advanced imaging, to reduce scarring, pain, and recovery time.
What to Expect
- Before Surgery: During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history, perform diagnostic tests, and discuss the procedure in detail, answering any questions you may have.
- During Surgery: Thyroid and parathyroid surgeries are typically performed under general anesthesia and take about 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
- After Surgery: Most patients can return home the same day or after an overnight stay. You may experience mild discomfort or hoarseness, which usually resolves within a few days to weeks.
Recovery and Follow-Up Care
- Thyroidectomy: Patients may need thyroid hormone replacement therapy to maintain normal metabolic function. Regular blood tests will ensure optimal hormone levels.
- Parathyroidectomy: Most patients experience immediate improvement in calcium levels. Follow-up visits will monitor calcium and parathyroid hormone levels to ensure long-term success.
Why Choose Us?
- Expertise: Our team has extensive experience in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, including minimally invasive and complex cases.
- Advanced Techniques: We utilize the latest technology to ensure precise, safe procedures with excellent outcomes.
- Patient-Centered Care: From diagnosis through recovery, we are committed to providing personalized care that prioritizes your health and comfort.
Take the First Step Toward Better Health
If you’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid or parathyroid condition that may require surgery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve optimal endocrine health. At our practice, you can expect expert care delivered with compassion and dedication.