Surgery
Thyroidectomy
A thyroidectomy removes all or part of the thyroid gland in the neck, used for goitre, overactive thyroid, nodules or thyroid cancer.
Quick answer
Thyroidectomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A thyroidectomy removes some or all of the thyroid — a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that makes hormones controlling metabolism. The amount removed depends on the reason for surgery.
- Why it is done: It is used for thyroid cancer or suspicious nodules, a large goitre pressing on the windpipe or gullet, and an overactive thyroid that has not responded to other treatments.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the gland through a small cut at the front of the neck.
What it is
A thyroidectomy removes some or all of the thyroid — a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that makes hormones controlling metabolism. The amount removed depends on the reason for surgery.
Why it is done
It is used for thyroid cancer or suspicious nodules, a large goitre pressing on the windpipe or gullet, and an overactive thyroid that has not responded to other treatments.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the gland through a small cut at the front of the neck. The operation usually takes 1–2 hours, and many people stay in hospital for a night.
Recovery
There is usually a sore neck and mild swallowing discomfort for a few days. If the whole thyroid is removed, lifelong thyroid hormone tablets are needed, and calcium levels are monitored.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Specific risks include temporary or, rarely, lasting voice changes from nerve irritation and low calcium if the nearby parathyroid glands are affected. Bleeding in the neck is a rare but important early risk.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Thyroidectomy: frequently asked questions
Will I need to take tablets after a thyroidectomy?
If the whole thyroid is removed, you will need to take thyroid hormone tablets for life to replace the missing hormone. If only part is removed, the remaining gland may make enough.
Will my voice be affected?
A temporary hoarse or weak voice can occur because of nerves near the thyroid, and usually recovers. A permanent voice change is uncommon, and the surgeon takes care to protect these nerves.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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