The thyroid and parathyroid glands
The thyroid gland sits at the front of the neck and makes hormones that regulate metabolism. The four small parathyroid glands just behind it control the calcium level in the blood.
When is surgery needed?
- A malignant or suspicious needle biopsy result
- A large goitre that makes breathing or swallowing difficult
- An overactive thyroid that cannot be controlled with medicines
- High calcium caused by a parathyroid adenoma
Diagnosis
Assessment starts with blood tests (thyroid hormones, calcium, parathyroid hormone) and a neck ultrasound. Nodules that need it have an ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy. Before surgery, vocal cord movement is checked with an endoscope. Care is planned together with endocrinology.
The operation
The operation is done under general anaesthesia through an incision in a natural skin crease of the neck. The whole gland (total thyroidectomy) or one lobe (lobectomy) may be removed. Care is taken to protect the nerve that moves the vocal cords and the parathyroid glands; nerve monitoring is used where appropriate.
Recovery
| WHEN | WHAT TO EXPECT |
|---|---|
| Days 1–2 | A hospital stay while the calcium level is monitored. |
| Week 1 | Wound check and review of the pathology result. |
| Week 2 | Most people return to daily life and work. |
| Afterwards | Thyroid hormone tablets are started if needed and followed with regular blood tests. |
Times are averages and vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Does every thyroid nodule need surgery?
No. Most nodules are benign and followed with ultrasound. Surgery is recommended in specific situations.
Will I need tablets for life after surgery?
If the whole thyroid is removed, hormone tablets are taken for life. If only one lobe is removed, most patients do not need them.
Will my voice be affected?
The nerve that moves the vocal cords is protected during surgery. A temporary change in voice can happen; permanent damage is rare.
Will there be a scar on my neck?
The incision is placed in a natural crease and fades over time.
Thyroid and parathyroid surgery
We can only discuss the right option for you after an examination. Write on WhatsApp to arrange a visit with Op. Dr. Efkan Mehdiyev.
Write on WhatsAppThis content is for general information only. Every surgical procedure carries its own risks and results vary from person to person. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.