Cancer Surgery
Open Access

Thyroid cancer; Radioactive iodine therapy; Hormone replacement therapy

Introduction

Thyroid cancer surgery involves the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland, depending on the extent and aggressiveness of the disease. It aims to eliminate cancerous cells, reduce the risk of recurrence, and improve the patient's quality of life [1]. The procedure is typically performed by an experienced endocrine surgeon and may be complemented by other treatments such as radioactive iodine therapy or hormone replacement therapy.

Materials and Methods

Types of thyroid cancer surgery

a) Total Thyroidectomy: This surgery involves the complete removal of the thyroid gland. It is usually recommended for patients with larger tumours, aggressive cancer types, or cases where cancer has spread beyond the thyroid gland. After this procedure, patients will need lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy [2-5].

b) Lobectomy: In certain cases, where cancer is confined to one lobe of the thyroid gland or is less aggressive, a lobectomy may be performed. This involves the removal of only the affected lobe, preserving the other healthy portion of the thyroid gland. Lobectomy may be followed by regular monitoring to ensure cancer does not recur or spread [6-8].

Benefits of thyroid cancer surgery

Thyroid cancer surgery offers numerous benefits to patients, including:

a) Removal of cancerous Tissue: Surgery provides a direct approach to remove cancerous cells, reducing the risk of further growth and spread. It serves as the primary treatment for many thyroid cancer cases.

b) Improved prognosis: Surgery plays a pivotal role in improving long-term prognosis, especially when combined with other treatments like radioactive iodine therapy. Early detection and timely surgical intervention significantly increase survival rates.

c) Alleviation of symptoms: Surgery can alleviate symptoms caused by an enlarged thyroid gland, such as difficulty swallowing or breathing. This enhances patients' overall quality of life and restores normal thyroid hormone levels.

d) Precise staging and diagnosis: The surgical removal of the thyroid gland allows for precise staging and accurate diagnosis, enabling healthcare professionals to tailor further treatment plans accordingly [9,10].

Potential risks and considerations

While thyroid cancer surgery is generally safe, it is essential to acknowledge potential risks, which may include temporary or permanent damage to surrounding structures like the vocal cords or parathyroid glands. However, these risks are relatively rare and can often be mitigated by choosing an experienced surgeon with expertise in endocrine surgery.

Post-surgical care and recovery

Following thyroid cancer surgery, patients require close monitoring and regular follow-up appointments to assess their hormone levels, monitor for recurrence, and manage any potential complications. In most cases, patients will need thyroid hormone replacement therapy to maintain proper hormone levels and ensure overall well-being.

Conclusion

Thyroid cancer surgery is a vital step in the treatment journey of patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer. By removing cancerous tissue, improving long-term prognosis, and alleviating symptoms, surgical intervention plays a pivotal role in combating this condition. Patients should consult with their healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate surgical approach and create a comprehensive treatment plan that maximizes their chances of a successful recovery and long-term well-being.

1. Muller PE, Jakoby R, Heinert G (2001) Surgery for recurrent goitre: its complications and their risk factors.Eur J Surg 167(11): 816-821.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

2. Fewins J, Simpson CB, Miller FR (2003) Complications of thyroid and parathyroid surgery.Otolaryngol Clin North Am36(1): 189-206.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

3. Shemen LJ, Strong EW (1989) Complications after total thyroidectomy.Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 101(4): 472-475.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

4. Lin DT, Patel SG, Shaha AR (2002) Incidence of inadvertent parathyroid removal during thyroidectomy.Laryngoscope 112(4): 608-611.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

5. Stojadinovic A, Shaha AR, Orlikoff RF (2002) Prospective functional voice assessment in patients undergoing thyroid surgery.Ann Surg 236(6): 823-832.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

6. McHenry CR, Slusarczyk SJ (2000) Hypothyroidisim following hemithyroidectomy: incidence, risk factors, and management.Surgery 128(6): 994-998.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

7. Shah JP, Patel SG(2003) Head and neck surgery and oncology.3rd edition St Louis (MO): Mosby.

Google Scholar

8. Henry JF, Audiffret J, Denizot A (1988) The nonrecurrent inferior laryngeal nerve: review of 33 cases, including two on the left side.Surgery1988 104(6): 977-984.

Google Scholar

9. Randolph GW, Kamani D (2006) The importance of preoperative laryngoscopy in patients undergoing thyroidectomy: voice, vocal cord function, and the preoperative detection of invasive thyroid malignancy.Surgery. 139(3): 357-362.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

10. Grillo HC, Zannini P (1986) Resectional management of airway invasion by thyroid carcinoma.Ann Thorac Surg. 42(3): 287-298.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref