What is thyroid lobectomy?
Thyroid lobectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove one of the lobes of the thyroid gland, located in the neck and plays a crucial role in producing hormones that regulate metabolism and other bodily functions. This procedure is commonly used to treat thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, or other thyroid conditions affecting one lobe of the gland.
Why is a thyroid lobectomy performed?
The primary purpose of thyroid lobectomy is to address conditions affecting one lobe of the thyroid gland, including:
- Thyroid nodules: Solid or fluid-filled lumps that form within the thyroid gland, which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
- Thyroid cancer: Malignant tumors or growths that develop within the thyroid gland, which may be confined to one lobe or may involve both lobes.
What does a thyroid lobectomy entail?
Before surgery, patients typically undergo a thorough evaluation, including medical history review, physical examination, thyroid function tests, ultrasound imaging, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy to assess the nature of thyroid nodules or tumors.
During the procedure
Thyroid lobectomy is performed under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety during the procedure. A small incision is made in the front of the neck, usually along a natural skin crease, to access the thyroid gland. The surgeon carefully identifies and examines the affected lobe of the thyroid gland, isolating it from the surrounding tissues and blood vessels. The lobe containing the thyroid nodule or tumor is then removed while preserving the adjacent lobe and ensuring the integrity of the parathyroid glands and recurrent laryngeal nerves. After the affected lobe of the thyroid gland is removed, the incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples, and a sterile dressing is applied to promote healing.
What is the recovery for thyroid lobectomy?
Most patients undergo thyroid lobectomy as an outpatient procedure and can go home the same day. In some cases, an overnight hospital stay may be recommended for observation. You may experience mild to moderate discomfort or soreness at the incision site and in the neck area, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications or over-the-counter pain relievers. You are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or straining during the initial recovery period to allow the incision to heal properly. You will need to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery, assess thyroid function, and address any concerns or complications.