Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Why surgery? Why is thyroid surgery done?

Surgery is used to treat thyroid problems if:
Thyroid cancer is present or is suspected. A noncancerous (benign) nodule is large enough to cause problems with breathing or swallowing. A fluid-filled (cystic) nodule returns after being drained once or twice. Hyperthyroidism can't be treated with medicines or radioactive iodine. You may have all or part of your thyroid gland removed, depending on the reason for the surgery.

Risks? What are the risks of thyroid surgery?

Thyroid surgery is generally a safe surgery. But there is a risk of complications, including:
Hoarseness and change of voice. The nerves that control your voice can be damaged during thyroid surgery. This is less common if your surgeon has a lot of experience or if you are having a lobectomy rather than a total thyroidectomy. Hypoparathyroidism. Hypoparathyroidism can occur if the parathyroid glands are mistakenly removed or damaged during a total thyroidectomy. This is not as common if you have a lobectomy.