Thyroidectomy
Thyroidectomy is surgical removal of part (hemithyroidectomy) or all (total thyroidectomy) of the thyroid gland. It is performed for thyroid cancer, large goitres causing compressive symptoms, Graves' disease not responding to medication, and suspicious thyroid nodules. The surgery is performed through a small horizontal incision at the base of the neck. With careful surgical technique, key structures — the recurrent laryngeal nerves (which control the voice) and the parathyroid glands (which control calcium) — are preserved.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
General anaesthesia is administered.
- 2
A small transverse neck incision is made in a skin crease.
- 3
The thyroid is carefully dissected free from surrounding structures.
- 4
The recurrent laryngeal nerves are identified and protected using a nerve monitor.
- 5
The parathyroid glands are identified and preserved on their blood supply.
- 6
The thyroid (or one lobe) is removed; a drain is placed and the incision closed.
✅ Benefits of Thyroidectomy
- ✓Complete removal of thyroid cancer with excellent long-term survival rates
- ✓Resolves hyperthyroidism in Graves' disease
- ✓Removes large goitres that compress the airway or oesophagus
- ✓Small cosmetic scar that fades over months
- ✓Neuro-monitoring protects the voice
📋 How to Prepare
- Thyroid function tests, thyroid ultrasound, and fine-needle aspiration cytology.
- For Graves' disease: antithyroid medications to normalise thyroid function before surgery.
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements started before total thyroidectomy.
- Voice assessment (indirect laryngoscopy) to check baseline vocal cord function.
- Pre-operative neck ultrasound mapping of lymph nodes.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Hypocalcaemia (low calcium) — from parathyroid disturbance; usually temporary
- Temporary or permanent hoarseness from recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (<1%)
- Hypothyroidism after total thyroidectomy — requires lifelong thyroxine replacement
- Haematoma — neck haematoma is a surgical emergency requiring prompt evacuation
- Wound infection
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Calcium levels checked 4–6 hours after surgery and next morning.
- Start calcium supplements as directed if levels are low.
- For total thyroidectomy: lifelong levothyroxine (thyroid hormone) replacement.
- Radioiodine ablation may be planned by the endocrinologist for thyroid cancer.
- Thyroglobulin tumour marker follow-up every 6–12 months for thyroid cancer.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need to take tablets for life after thyroidectomy?
After total thyroidectomy: yes, you will take levothyroxine (a thyroid hormone tablet) once daily for life. After hemithyroidectomy, the remaining half may produce enough hormones — this is checked with blood tests.
How soon can I speak normally after surgery?
Most patients have a slightly hoarse or weak voice for a few days due to intubation and tissue swelling. This resolves within 1–2 weeks. Permanent voice change is very rare (<1%).
🏥 Thyroidectomy at Iswarya Hospital
Iswarya Cancer Centre provides comprehensive oncology support with radiation therapy using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.
👨⚕️ Our Oncology Specialists
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Surgical Oncology), FMAS, FIAGES, FALS
13+ years Experience
Plan your first visit
Not sure which specialist to see? Tell our care team the reason for your visit and we will help you choose.
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- If you plan to use insurance, bring your policy details. OPD, tests and admission benefits depend on your individual plan and approval.
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Appointments are requests until confirmed. In a medical emergency, call 044 2025 2025 or go to the nearest emergency department.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.