Thyroid Surgery in Chirag Enclave, Delhi
Thyroid cancer is most often curable. Surgery is the most common and most successful treatment for thyroid cancer. Treatment plans and recommendations are influenced by various factors. A multidisciplinary team of doctors makes the decision based on type and stage of cancer, overall health, and your personal preference. Thyroid cancer surgery doctors in Delhi can help you understand the risks and benefits of different thyroid surgeries.
What is surgery for thyroid cancer?
Most cases of thyroid cancer are treated with surgery. The surgery, also called resection is performed to remove the tumor and surrounding tissues. The surgeon will make an incision at your neck for the surgery. Depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor, the procedure includes:
- Removing all or most of the thyroid
- Removing a part of the thyroid gland
- Removing lymph nodes in the neck
When is thyroid cancer surgery done?
In most cases, there is no need to rush into surgery. Most thyroid cancers are slow-growing and even if they have spread to the lymph nodes, surgery is not an urgent requirement. It is essential to research and understand your options and choose the right cancer center and the right surgeon.
Discussing the nature of your cancer and the possible treatment option is the start. Your oncologist will recommend surgery only if your overall health is favorable for the procedure and recovery. Talk to the thyroid cancer surgery specialists near you to get a complete diagnosis and understand surgical choices for your cancer.
Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chirag Enclave, Delhi.
Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.
What are the different types of thyroid cancer surgery?
- Lobectomy - The procedure is done to remove the lobe containing cancer. It’s often preferred in cases where the tumor is small and hasn’t spread beyond the thyroid gland.
- Thyroidectomy - The surgery is to remove the entire thyroid gland. In case of a near-total thyroidectomy, the surgeon will not remove the entire gland. You will have to take thyroid hormone medication daily after this procedure.
- Lymphadenectomy - Removal of lymph nodes in the neck that are affected by cancer.
Thyroidectomy can be performed using different techniques:
- For a standard thyroidectomy, a small incision is made at the neck giving the surgeon access to operate on the thyroid gland.
- Endoscopic thyroidectomy uses a scope and video monitor to guide the operation.
What are the possible side effects and complications of thyroid cancer surgery?
It's important to know what to expect after surgery, during recovery. Some of the common short-term side effects of the procedure are:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Sore throat
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Temporary hypoparathyroidism(low calcium levels)
- Hypothyroidism
- Most of these are temporary and treatable.
Complications during and after thyroid cancer surgery are less likely. Potential complications include:
- Damage to nerves that can cause long-term hoarseness or loss of voice
- Damage to parathyroid glands, leading to low calcium levels
- Permanent Hypoparathyroidism
- Blood clots or excessive bleeding
- Infection
- Complications from anesthesia
Conclusion
A cancer diagnosis is always unsettling, regardless of the type. The recovery rate from thyroid cancer is quite high. Surgery to remove cancer in the thyroid gland is a relatively safe and successful procedure.
Reference:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thyroid-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354167
Even though it's an extensive surgery, the recovery time is relatively short. Most people are able to talk and eat a few hours after the surgery. It is advisable to take a week or two off work for complete recovery. Every patient is different and the recovery period varies as well. The doctor will discuss the details of pain medication and possible treatment for hyperthyroidism at the time of discharge.
Avoid vigorous activities and heavy lifting for about a week. Most patients are able to get back to driving and work within a week or two after the surgery. Be sure to not miss any follow-up checkups. Too much activity can increase the chances of developing a hematoma(bleeding) and also delay wound healing.
Follow all instructions regarding care of the incision site. Keep the area clean and dry. Do not scrub the incision area or soak for too long.
In the case of thyroidectomy, hormone replacements will have to be taken for the rest of your life. Routine checkups with an endocrinologist will also be required to manage your hormone levels.