The thyroid gland is an organ located in the neck region that plays a critical role in regulating metabolism. However, in some cases, thyroid gland problems may arise and require treatment. Conditions such as thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, or the excessive or insufficient functioning of the thyroid gland may necessitate thyroid surgery.
What is Thyroid Gland Surgery?
Thyroid gland surgery is a surgical procedure performed to treat nodules occurring in the thyroid gland, thyroid cancer, or the excessive or insufficient functioning of the thyroid gland. It is generally applied to determine whether thyroid nodules are cancerous or to correct the excessive or insufficient functioning of the thyroid gland.
Who is Suitable for Thyroid Gland Surgery?
Some conditions that may make an individual a candidate for thyroid gland surgery include:
- Enlarged thyroid nodules or nodules with a risk of cancer.
- Patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
- Conditions where the thyroid gland is working excessively, such as Graves' disease or Basedow's disease.
- Conditions where thyroid gland functions are reduced or there is a deficiency of thyroid hormones.
These conditions may require regulating the functions of the thyroid gland or removal of nodules, and surgical intervention may be a suitable option.
How Does Thyroid Gland Surgery Work?
Thyroid gland surgery is generally a surgical intervention performed from the neck region. It is usually conducted under general anesthesia. The surgeon carefully removes the affected area of the thyroid gland or the nodules. During the surgical procedure, efforts are made to preserve the functionality of the thyroid gland; however, in some cases, complete or partial removal of the gland may be necessary.
Thyroid surgery is generally preferred in the following cases:
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Nodules or goiter pressing on the airways,
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Detection of suspicious or malignant nodules,
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Lack of response to hyperthyroidism treatment,
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Noticeable neck swellings for aesthetic reasons.
Before the operation, detailed thyroid function tests, ultrasonography, scintigraphy, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy, if necessary, are performed on the patient. These tests are crucial for the surgeon to determine which areas to remove. In some cases, medication may also be started preoperatively to stabilize hormone balance.
Techniques used in thyroid surgery are advanced, and today, minimally invasive (small incision) surgical methods can be applied. Special devices, such as nerve monitoring technologies, are also used to prevent damage to the vocal cords if deemed necessary. Thus, the risk of complications is minimized.
If the entire thyroid gland is removed during surgery (total thyroidectomy), the patient may need lifelong thyroid hormone supplementation postoperatively. In cases of partial removal (lobectomy), if the remaining gland's hormone production is sufficient, medication use may not be necessary. The surgical option to be applied is determined specifically for the patient based on their clinical picture.
Postoperative Care Following Thyroid Gland Surgery
After thyroid gland surgery, patients generally stay in the hospital for a few days to monitor the recovery process. As the surgical site heals, regular doctor check-ups and medication may be required. In the postoperative period, attention is paid to balancing the patient's thyroid hormones and ensuring a healthy recovery process. Thyroid gland surgery is an effective method for treating thyroid problems.
However, it is important to consult a doctor to determine whether it is an appropriate treatment option for each patient. Individuals experiencing problems with their thyroid gland should contact an endocrinologist or thyroid surgeon to obtain information about thyroid gland surgery and learn about appropriate treatment options. With the recommendations of a health professional and proper treatment, it is possible to manage thyroid issues.
Some points to consider in the postoperative period include:
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Keeping the surgical field clean and performing dressings as recommended,
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Monitoring symptoms such as hoarseness and difficulty swallowing,
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Checking calcium levels (especially in total thyroidectomy),
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Regular initiation of thyroid hormone therapy.
In the postoperative period, some patients may experience low calcium levels. This may be due to the impact on the parathyroid glands and is generally temporary. In such cases, calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be initiated. Additionally, in the initial weeks, tension, slight pain, or loss of sensation in the neck may occur; these are mostly temporary.
Individuals who have undergone thyroid surgery should be regularly monitored by an endocrinologist. Post-surgical thyroid hormone levels should be adjusted, TSH follow-up conducted, and if necessary, the hormone dose readjusted. In patients who have undergone surgery due to thyroid cancer, recurrence control is conducted with thyroglobulin levels and imaging methods.
Psychological support is also important in this process. Some patients may experience aesthetic concerns due to the surgical scar on the neck. Therefore, patients should also be informed about creams that reduce scar appearance or aesthetic surgery options. In general, thanks to modern surgical techniques applied today, the recovery process progresses quickly, comfortably, and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located at the front of the neck, on both sides of the windpipe. This gland produces thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which control many important functions, from regulating metabolism to controlling body temperature, to heart rhythm and the digestive process. Thyroid gland diseases not only affect the production of hormones but also structural abnormalities in the gland—such as nodules in the thyroid gland—are also classified as diseases. A structural or functional problem can lead to systemic effects.
The health of the thyroid gland is necessary for the proper functioning of both physical and mental processes. It plays a role in numerous functions, from daily energy use to skin health, muscle structure, and the menstrual cycle. Especially during periods of hormonal changes such as childhood, adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause, thyroid functions should be closely monitored. Therefore, thyroid health is emphasized as a subject to be attended to at every stage of life.
What is the Purpose of the Thyroid Gland?
What is the purpose of the thyroid gland? is a fundamental question to understand why this gland is so important. The hormones produced by the thyroid gland:
- Regulate metabolic rate,
- Balance body temperature,
- Help maintain healthy functioning of the heart and digestive systems,
- Support growth and development,
- Directly affect brain functions and mood.
For this reason, the underactivity of the thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) or the overactivity of the thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) can lead to serious health problems. Additionally, muscle strength, fatigue levels, dry skin, hair loss, or even changes in nail structure can signal a thyroid hormone imbalance. Keeping these hormones balanced is also crucial for the healthy functioning of the immune system. Deviations in hormone levels can trigger many chronic diseases.
Where is the Thyroid Gland Located?
Where is the thyroid gland located? is a question of interest, especially for individuals who sense abnormalities in the neck region during a physical examination.
The thyroid gland:
Is located at the front of the neck,
Just below the Adam's apple,
On both sides of the windpipe (trachea).
Under normal circumstances, this gland is not felt from the outside. However, in cases of enlargement (goiter), nodule formation in the thyroid gland, or inflammation, swelling may become visible in the front of the neck. Patients may sometimes seek medical advice with complaints of difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a feeling of pressure. In such complaints, a detailed evaluation is made with ultrasonography and thyroid function tests, along with a physical examination. The thyroid gland, though small, has vital functions, and even the slightest changes should be taken into account.
What are the Functions of the Thyroid Gland?
The functions of the thyroid gland are required for maintaining a healthy life at every stage. The functions of this small gland are as follows:
- Energy production and use: Ensures cells produce the energy they need.
- Metabolic balance: Regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
- Growth and development: Plays a critical role, especially during infancy and adolescence.
- Functioning of the nervous system: Affects attention, memory, and concentration.
- Body temperature control: Maintains balance in cold or hot environments.
- Muscle and heart functions: Regulates muscle strength and heart rate.
- Menstrual cycle in women: Directly affects hormone balance.
Additionally, thyroid hormones have direct effects on bone health, digestive system functioning, sleep quality, and emotional balance. Low hormone levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis, while high hormone levels can disrupt heart rhythm. Therefore, disruptions in the functions of this gland can lead to chain problems affecting all body systems.
What is Underactive Thyroid Gland (Hypothyroidism)?
Underactive thyroid gland, or hypothyroidism, is a clinical condition resulting from the thyroid gland not producing sufficient hormones. It most commonly develops due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Symptoms include:
- Fatigue, weakness, tendency to sleep,
- Weight gain, constipation,
- Hair loss, dry skin,
- Difficulty concentrating, depressive mood.
Hypothyroidism is a slow-progressing disease but can lead to significant health problems over time. Early diagnosis and medication therapy provide substantial improvement in symptoms. Additionally, patients should pay attention to diet, exercise, and stress management along with medication use. During the treatment process, TSH levels should be regularly monitored, and medication doses should be adjusted when necessary.
What is Overactive Thyroid Gland (Hyperthyroidism)?
Overactive thyroid gland, or hyperthyroidism, occurs due to the excessive production of thyroid hormones. In this situation, the body's metabolism speeds up.
Symptoms include:
- Rapid heartbeat, palpitations,
- Excessive sweating, tremor in the hands,
- Weight loss, increased appetite,
- Nervousness, insomnia.
In hyperthyroidism, the cardiovascular system can be severely affected. Therefore, the treatment plan must be carefully crafted. Treatment options include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgical intervention. In Graves' disease patients with eye involvement, additional ophthalmological assessment may be necessary. In these patients, vitamin and mineral supplements may also be included in the treatment.
How is Thyroid Gland Treatment Done?
Thyroid gland treatment varies depending on the type of disease. The main treatment methods are:
- Hypothyroidism: Hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine).
- Hyperthyroidism: Antithyroid medications, iodine therapy, or surgery.
- Thyroid nodules: Observation, biopsy, or surgery.
- Thyroid cancer: Radioactive iodine and hormone suppression therapy after surgery.
After thyroid surgery, patients may need lifelong hormone supplements. Especially in cancer cases, following surgery, radioactive iodine therapy is applied to eliminate the remaining cells. The treatment plan should be individualized based on the patient's age, clinical picture, and accompanying conditions.
Which Department to Visit for the Thyroid Gland?
Which department to visit for the thyroid gland? is crucial for ensuring that patients see the appropriate specialist in a timely manner.
- Endocrinology: Diagnosis and follow-up of thyroid hormone disorders, planning of medication treatment.
- Internal Medicine (Internal Diseases): General evaluation, initial application.
- General Surgery: Involves in cases requiring surgery, such as nodules, goiter, or cancer.
Additionally, departments such as radiology (ultrasound), nuclear medicine (scintigraphy), pathology (biopsy evaluation) also contribute to the diagnostic process. Coordination among these departments during the treatment process is critically important for an accurate and effective management.