Thyroid Cancer Treatment

Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that occurs with abnormal cell growth in the thyroid gland located in the front of the neck. It may not usually cause symptoms in the early stages. However, with correct diagnosis and thyroid cancer treatment The success rate with is quite high.

Surgical Thyroid Cancer Treatment Methods

One of the most common and effective methods of treatment is surgery. Surgical intervention aims to completely remove cancerous tissue. It is usually supported by other treatment methods (such as radiotherapy or hormone therapy). The surgical treatment method is determined by the type, stage and spread of the cancer.

Total thyroidectomy is the process of removing the entire thyroid gland. It is preferred in cancer types with a high potential for spread. This method reduces the risk of cancer cells spreading again in the body. After surgery, patients must use levothyroxine for life.

Subtotal thyroidectomy or partial thyroidectomy is the removal of part of the thyroid gland. This method is preferred if the cancer is limited to a small area and the risk of spreading is low. With this method, thyroid hormone production can be partially preserved. Therefore, some patients may not need hormone supplements.

Lobectomy is the removal of only one lobe of the thyroid gland. This method is used if the nodule or tumor is only in one lobe and the risk of cancer is low. After this method, the other lobe of the thyroid gland can continue to function. However, in some cases, hormone therapy may be required.

During the recovery period after surgery, side effects such as hoarseness or difficulty swallowing may occur. There may also be a decrease in calcium levels. Regular monitoring and control of hormone levels are critical to the success of the treatment.

Conservative Thyroid Cancer Treatment Methods

Conservative thyroid cancer treatment, are methods that do not require surgery or are used as supportive. These methods are performed in the early stages of cancer, in slowly growing tumors, or if the patient's general health is not suitable for surgery. Conservative treatment aims to preserve the patient's quality of life and prevent the progression of cancer.

Active surveillance is the preferred method for patients with small, slow-growing thyroid cancer. This approach involves monitoring with ultrasound and blood tests rather than treating immediately. It is especially applied to low-risk tumors such as papillary microcarcinoma.

If the tumor does not grow or show signs of spreading, the patient is not given unnecessary treatment. However, if the tumor grows or changes, surgery or other treatment methods are used.

Radioactive iodine therapy is used to destroy thyroid tissue or spreading cancer cells after surgery. Since iodine is absorbed by thyroid cells, radioactive iodine provides targeted therapy. It is especially effective in follicular and papillary thyroid cancers. After treatment, patients increase the effectiveness of the treatment by following an iodine-restricted diet for a short period of time.

Hormone suppression therapy keeps the TSH hormone level low after thyroid cancer. This prevents cancer cells from growing. Synthetic thyroid hormones are used to reduce stimulation of the thyroid gland. This treatment can be applied after surgery or in conjunction with RAI therapy.

External radiotherapy is usually used in aggressive types such as anaplastic thyroid cancer. Chemotherapy is rarely preferred. It is mostly used in advanced thyroid cancers. These treatments are usually used in combination with other methods to increase the effectiveness of the treatment.

Conservative thyroid cancer treatment, is planned according to the type of thyroid cancer and the patient's condition. Regular follow-up and compliance with the treatment process are of great importance for successful results.

After Thyroid Cancer Treatment

Thyroid cancer treatment The post-treatment process supports the patient's recovery. It is also important to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence. Post-treatment follow-up, regular check-ups and hormone balance should be provided. In addition, lifestyle changes are among the basic elements of this period.

After treatment, some patients need hormone replacement therapy. These drugs regulate metabolism. They suppress TSH levels and prevent cancer cells from growing again. Hormone therapy is usually continued for life. Dosage adjustments are made with regular blood tests.

Regular follow-up after treatment is very important. Doctors check the patient at certain intervals depending on the risk of cancer recurrence. Ultrasound, blood tests and radioactive iodine scans are used in the follow-up process. Thyroglobulin levels can indicate whether the cancer has recurred. If an abnormality is detected, additional treatment methods may be applied.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle after treatment supports recovery. A balanced diet and regular exercise positively affect the patient's overall health. Stress management is also beneficial during the recovery process. Patients receiving radioactive iodine treatment should follow an iodine-restricted diet for a period of time. Calcium levels should be monitored because the parathyroid glands can be affected after surgery.

Some patients may experience emotional difficulties after treatment. Anxiety and depression may be common during this process. Psychological support, participation in patient groups or professional counseling are beneficial during this process. Family and friend support also increases morale and motivation.

Thyroid cancer treatment The post-operative process should be managed well both physically and emotionally. With regular follow-up and healthy living habits, patients can live a long and healthy life.