Surgical Treatment for Thyroid & Parathyroid Disorders
At Brevard ENT Center, we provide expert surgical care for thyroid and parathyroid disorders using advanced, patient-focused techniques. Whether addressing nodules, hormone imbalances, or cancer, our team offers safe and effective procedures tailored to each condition. From traditional surgeries to minimally invasive options, we aim to restore hormonal balance, relieve symptoms, and improve long-term health outcomes.
Thyroid Surgery
Thyroid surgery is used to treat several different thyroid conditions such as:
- Nodules
- Cancer
- Hyperthyroidism
Surgery is often considered a last resort and may be recommended when:
- Conservative treatments have failed
- The condition is recurring
- Cancer is present
Thyroid surgery removes part or all of the thyroid gland depending on the condition's type and severity.
Types of Thyroid Surgery
Thyroid Lobectomy
Only one lobe of the thyroid is removed, often with an isthmectomy to remove the connecting structure. Used when a thyroid nodule is confined to one area.
Subtotal Thyroidectomy
One full lobe, the isthmus, and part of the opposite lobe are removed. Typically performed for Graves’ disease or small cancers.
Total Thyroidectomy
The entire thyroid gland and surrounding lymph nodes are removed. This is the most common procedure for thyroid cancer to ensure complete removal.
Post-Surgical Considerations
If the entire thyroid is removed, thyroid hormone replacement drugs will be necessary, usually for life. Without a thyroid, patients may experience hypothyroidism, which can cause:
- Fatigue
- Exhaustion
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
Surgical Procedure Details
- Incision is made in the middle of the neck
- Procedure duration: approximately 2 hours
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Overnight hospital stay required
- Return to normal activity is usually possible the next day
- Avoid strenuous activity for at least 10 days
Thyroid surgery is considered safe, though temporary hoarseness or sore throat may occur due to the breathing tube used during surgery.
Parathyroid Surgery
The most common condition involving the parathyroid glands is hyperparathyroidism, or overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH). While medications exist, surgery is typically the only cure.
Parathyroidectomy
Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands is called a parathyroidectomy.
- A small neck incision is made to remove the affected gland(s)
- The number of glands removed depends on the patient’s specific condition
- Some parathyroid tissue must remain to prevent hypoparathyroidism (decreased hormone activity)
Schedule Your Consultation
Don't let thyroid or parathyroid disorders continue to impact your health. Modern surgical techniques offer excellent outcomes with minimal risks when performed by experienced specialists.