Toxic Goiter Surgery

Toxic goiter is a disease caused by excessive hormone production by the thyroid gland. This condition is usually associated with hyperthyroidism. Symptoms include palpitations, weight loss, irritability, and sweating. Treatment options include drug therapy, radioactive iodine application, and surgical intervention. If drug therapy is not sufficient or the goiter is large, toxic goiter surgery is done.

In Which Cases Is Toxic Goiter Surgery Performed?

Toxic goiter occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. It is usually seen with hyperthyroidism. Symptoms such as palpitations, weight loss, and irritability are seen. The first choice in the treatment of this disease is medication. However, in some cases, surgical intervention may be required.

Surgery is preferred in patients who do not respond to drug treatment. Surgery is considered a solution for patients whose hormone levels do not return to normal despite long-term use of medication. In addition, surgery may be considered if the medications used cause serious side effects. In this way, thyroid hormone production is controlled.

If the goiter mass is very large and presses, surgical intervention is recommended. It can seriously affect the quality of life of patients who have breathing or swallowing problems. Large thyroid nodules can press on the esophagus or trachea. In such cases, surgery becomes necessary.

If there is a suspicion of cancer in the thyroid nodules, surgery is performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. If suspicious cells are seen in a fine needle biopsy, the goiter may need to be completely removed. In some women, surgery is considered if they are planning to get pregnant or if using medication during pregnancy is not safe.

Toxic goiter surgery, is planned after a detailed evaluation by a specialist. Hormone tests, imaging results and the patient's general health status are taken into consideration when making a decision.

How Long Does Toxic Goiter Surgery Take?

Toxic goiter surgery The entire ileothyroid gland or a certain part of it is removed. It is performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the surgery may vary depending on many factors. Under standard conditions, the operation is completed in approximately 1 to 2 hours.

The size of the thyroid gland is an important factor affecting the duration. In addition, the patient's general health and previous neck surgeries are also effective. The pressure or spread of the goiter on the surrounding tissues can also prolong the duration of the surgery. Technical difficulties directly affect the duration of the surgery.

The time given only covers the part of the surgery that is performed. Preoperative preparations and the postoperative recovery process are excluded from this time. Patients are usually kept under observation for a few hours after surgery. If everything is fine, they can be taken to the ward on the same day.

The hospital stay can last up to 2 days. The recovery process may vary from person to person. Most patients can return to their normal lives within a few weeks. Regular doctor check-ups and monitoring of hormone levels are important during this process.

The duration of surgery may vary for each patient. Therefore, the surgeon informs the patient with pre-procedure evaluations. A specialist surgeon should be preferred for a successful surgery. Having surgery in a well-equipped hospital is also important for a safe process.

How is Toxic Goiter Surgery Performed?

Toxic goiter surgery, is performed to stop the thyroid gland from producing excessive hormones. This surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The patient is completely asleep. In this way, the operation is completed without feeling any pain.

Before the surgery, the patient is subjected to certain tests. Blood tests, thyroid hormone levels, and a detailed evaluation are performed with thyroid ultrasound. If deemed necessary, scintigraphy or biopsy may also be requested. This preparation process ensures that the surgery is planned safely.

During the operation, a small incision is made in the front of the neck. Through this incision, the surgeon reaches the thyroid gland. The entire tissue or gland that causes the toxic goiter is carefully removed. Depending on the type of surgery, total thyroidectomy or subtotal thyroidectomy may be performed.

The surgeon works meticulously to avoid damaging the nerves and glands that go to the vocal cords. The operation takes an average of 1-2 hours. After the operation, the incision is closed aesthetically. The scar loses its visibility over time.

After the procedure, the patient is kept under observation for a few hours. The hospital stay is usually 1-2 days. Afterwards, medication for thyroid hormone supplementation may be started when discharged. Toxic goiter surgery, is performed successfully by an experienced surgeon. Provides a permanent solution in suitable patients. Increases the quality of life.

What is the Recovery Process Like After Toxic Goiter Surgery?

Toxic goiter surgery The recovery process after surgery varies from person to person. However, most people can return to their daily lives within a few weeks. During this process, following the doctor's recommendations carefully is of great importance for a quick and problem-free recovery.

A 1-2 day hospital stay is usually sufficient after the surgery. The patient is kept under observation for the first hours. During this period, mild complaints such as pain, difficulty swallowing and weakness may be experienced. These conditions are controlled with painkillers and supportive treatments recommended by the doctor.

After discharge, the patient usually rests at home. The incision area in the neck should be kept clean and dry. Protecting this area from infection is critical to the healing process. Light physical activity can be done for a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for a while.

Since thyroid hormone production decreases after surgery, patients are started on thyroid hormone medications. These medications provide hormonal balance. The doctor monitors hormone levels by performing regular blood tests.

Temporary side effects such as hoarseness, tingling or low calcium levels may be observed. These symptoms usually disappear in a short time. However, if they persist, they should definitely be reported to a physician.

Toxic goiter surgery The recovery process takes an average of 2 to 4 weeks. At the end of this period, most patients can return to their normal lives. Continuing regular follow-up and check-ups is important for long-term success.