The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of the neck. It is responsible for secreting thyroid hormones, which play crucial roles in metabolism. An underactive or overactive thyroid can lead to significant health problems.
The main causes of goiter include:
Surgery performed on the thyroid gland is called a thyroidectomy, which means the surgical removal of the thyroid gland. This surgery can involve the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland. In cases of thyroid cancer, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.
Potential problems during goiter surgeries include damage to the vocal cords and accidental removal of the parathyroid glands. The parathyroid glands are responsible for maintaining calcium balance in the body. Therefore, the removal of the parathyroid glands can lower calcium levels in the blood, requiring calcium and vitamin D supplementation for the patient. If the nerves leading to the vocal cords are damaged, hoarseness may occur post-surgery.
Cancer can be found in 4-20% of nodules seen in the thyroid gland. Generally, malignant nodules are singular, tend to grow, and are hard. Thyroid cancers are classified into four types: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. The anaplastic type, which is the most aggressive, typically occurs in older age.
Fine needle biopsy and scintigraphy are used in the diagnosis of thyroid cancer. The nodule or thyroid gland that is surgically removed can be pathologically examined to diagnose cancer. Surgical methods and radiotherapy are used in the treatment of thyroid cancers.
Last Updated Date: 19 June 2018
Publication Date: 19 June 2018
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