Thyroid gland removal
Alternative names:
partial thyroidectomy; thyroidectomy; total thyroidectomy
Definition:
Surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland.
Description:
While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), an incision is made in the front of the neck. The thyroid gland is removed. Up to 90% of the gland can be removed, although the amount varies according to the condition.
Indications:
The thyroid gland , a part of the endocrine (hormone ) system, plays a major role in regulating the body's metabolism. Some diseases affect the gland by reducing its output of hormones (hypothyroidism), while others cause overproduction (hyperthyroidism). Thyroid disorders are more common in older children and adolescents (especially in girls) than in infants. Most thyroid conditions can be treated medically, but occasionally surgery is required.
Thyroidectomy may be recommended for:
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