Fact 2. The Procedure of Partial Thyroidectomy: Demystifying the Steps
The thought of any surgical procedure, including a partial thyroidectomy, can instigate fear and anxiety. However, understanding what the procedure involves can alleviate some of these apprehensions. So, let’s dive in and unravel the different stages of a partial thyroidectomy procedure.
Every surgical procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia. In the case of a partial thyroidectomy, general anesthesia is typically used. This ensures that you remain unconscious throughout the procedure, eliminating any possibility of pain.
The anesthesiologist starts by placing an intravenous (IV) line into one of your veins. Through this IV line, the anesthesia drugs are administered. Within moments, you drift into a state of deep sleep. The anesthesiologist then places a tube down your throat to assist with breathing during the procedure.
Following the anesthesia, the next step involves the surgeon making an incision in the front of your neck to access the thyroid gland. The size and location of the incision can vary based on the surgeon’s preference and the specific needs of your case. This is carefully planned to minimize scarring and ensure a faster recovery.
Once the thyroid gland is accessed, the surgeon then removes the part of the thyroid that contains the problematic nodule or the overactive tissue. This part of the procedure requires exceptional precision to avoid damaging the surrounding tissues and structures, including the parathyroid glands and the recurrent laryngeal nerves that control the vocal cords.
The portion of the gland removed depends on the underlying issue. If a solitary nodule is the problem, only that segment of the thyroid gland is removed. In cases of hyperthyroidism, a larger part of the gland may be taken out to reduce hormone production significantly. (2)
