Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

The thyroid is a gland in the neck that regulates the body's metabolism. In the thyroid, there are four parathyroid glands that produce a hormone that regulates the amount of minerals present in the blood and bone.

There are several common problems that can occur with the thyroid or parathyroid glands, including:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Hyperparathyroidism
  
• Hypothyroidism
• Hypoparathyroidism
  
• Nodules or lumps on the thyroid
• Parathyroid adenoma
  
• Thyroid cancer
  

Our Thyroid Surgeons

Common Procedures

Most thyroid or parathyroid problems can be treated by the removal or partial removal of the thyroid or parathyroid glands. During this procedure, the patient is under general anesthesia, and a small incision is made near the base of the neck. Then, the thyroid or parathyroid glands are removed. The surgeon is very careful to preserve the nerves and blood vessels in the neck during this surgery.

Thyroidectomy

Parathyroidectomy

Patients who have thyroidectomy or parathyroidectomy must take a daily medication to replace the normal function of the thyroid.

Additional Resources

• American Thyroid Association