THYROIDECTOMY

This surgical procedure involves the total or partial removal of the thyroid gland, according to the type of disease.

The thyroid gland is singular and has two portions or lobes. It is in the lower and central part of the neck, exactly in front of the trachea. Its function is to produce the thyroid hormone, responsible for the body’s general metabolism. The incision for the thyroidectomy procedure is transversal and performed on the lower part of the neck. On average, it measures 5-7 cm in length, but it may vary in each case.

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. In a few cases, a drainage tube must remain in place for 2-5 days to prevent the operated site from accumulating fluids. Hospitalization is of one day in most cases, and depending on the type of technique used, the stitches need not be removed.

There are two methods of thyroidectomy today. One uses large incisions and the other (referred to as minimally invasive) uses smaller incisions for the procedure.