THYROID SURGERY
Thyroid Surgery is a common procedure used to treat various conditions of the Thyroid Gland. The surgery may entail removal of one side of the Thyroid Gland (hemi-thyroidectomy) or removal of the entire gland (total thyroidectomy). The decision to perform a hemi- or total thyroidectomy depends on the type and extent of disease. Most patients with Thyroid Cancer undergo surgery to remove the entire Thyroid Gland. Occasionally, when removing a cancerous Thyroid Gland, there may be a need to also remove lymph nodes from the neck. This is referred to as a Neck Dissection. The goal is to remove the lymph nodes that the cancer has spread to (metastatic lymph nodes).
THYROID SURGERY IS OFTEN USED TO TREAT:
- Thyroid cancer
- Large Goiters that are causing difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Thyroid cysts that return after repeat drainage
- Hyperthyroidism that does not respond to medications
Minimally invasive Thyroid Surgery is performed by making a small incision in the neck. Removal of the gland is facilitated by the harmonic scalpel, a novel surgical instrument which utilizes harmonic frequency to dissect tissue. The unique design of the harmonic scalpel allows for reduced thermal injury and facilitates the minimally invasive approaches to the Thyroid Gland.
The Thyroid Gland is in close proximity of the recurrent laryngeal nerves. These nerves are responsible for movement of the vocal cords and damage to them may result in a temporary or permanent change in voice. The safety of the surgery is increased by monitoring laryngeal (vocal cord) nerve function during the procedure. Although there is no substitute for surgical experience and knowledge of the anatomy to minimize surgical risk to the recurrent laryngeal nerve, intra-operative nerve monitoring has proved to be very useful.
Laryngeal nerve monitor
Monitoring is accomplished by using a NIM EMG endotracheal tube, which contains tracing electrodes and is connected to an EMG monitor. The laryngeal nerve is continuously monitored during the surgical procedure. Nerve monitoring is especially useful in patients that have had prior Thyroid Surgery or in cases where the Thyroid Cancer is in close proximity of the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
Thyroid disease can be very serious if left untreated and it is important to see a doctor promptly if you think you may be affected by a thyroid disorder. Dr. Zadeh is committed to providing the highest quality and most efficient care possible so that his patients achieve fast and effective treatment. Dr. Zadeh implements distinctive surgical approaches using the safest, most advanced, and minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Zadeh is focused on cutting-edge techniques and treatment options that offer his patients the greatest outcomes while minimizing risk.
Harmonic Scalpel