Thyroid surgery

What does the thyroid do?

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ in the front of the neck that regulates metabolism. Its main job is to produce hormones, mainly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which control metabolism speed. These hormones are vital for functions like heart rate, body temperature, and energy production. The pituitary gland controls the thyroid by releasing thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which tells the thyroid how much T3 and T4 to produce based on the body’s needs. An imbalance in these hormones can cause problems like hyperthyroidism (too much hormone) or hypothyroidism (too little hormone), affecting overall health.

When would thyroid surgery be necessary?

Thyroid surgery may be needed for the following reasons:

  • Thyroid Cancer: Surgery is often required to treat various types of thyroid cancer, such as papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic.

  • Large Goitre: An enlarged thyroid gland or goitre that affects breathing or swallowing may need to be surgically removed to relieve these issues.

  • Hyperthyroidism: When hyperthyroidism does not respond to medication or radioactive iodine, surgery might be an option, especially for Graves' disease or multinodular goitre.

  • Thyroid Nodules: Nodules that are concerning based on biopsy results or that cause symptoms due to their size may require surgery.

What types of thyroid surgery are there?

The main types of thyroid surgery include:

1. Total Thyroidectomy

This procedure involves the complete removal of the thyroid gland. It is typically performed in cases of thyroid cancer, multinodular goitre, or hyperthyroidism when other treatments have failed.

2. Hemithyroidectomy (Lobectomy)

In a hemithyroidectomy, one lobe of the thyroid gland is removed. This procedure is often used when there is a suspicious nodule in one lobe or a unilateral disease that does not require complete thyroid removal.

Dr Rodrigues will discuss the options with you and make recommendations taking into account your general health, specific thyroid issues, and personal wishes.