Thyroid cancer treatment with partial thyroid removal

The thyroid gland looks like a butterfly, with two lobes connected by an isthmus. Surgery is the primary treatment method when an organ is affected by cancer. If the tumor is small and does not spread beyond the gland, only one lobe with an isthmus is usually removed. The advantage is that one lobe remains and continues to produce hormones. Before the operation, the condition of the heart and lungs is checked with an electrocardiogram and a chest X-ray. Next, the endocrinologist takes blood tests and gives recommendations. The operation usually lasts about 1-2 hours. It is carried out under general anesthesia. With the help of ultrasound, the thyroid surgeon determines the tumor's localization and the lymph nodes' condition. Next, he makes a marking on the skin, and the anesthesiologist enters the patient into sleep. The surgeon makes an incision in the lower front of the neck and removes parts affected by cancer. After that, the neck muscles are stitched together, and drainage is installed. Next, cosmetic stitches are applied along the natural folds of the neck. Usually, the seam is about 4-5 cm long. In addition, thin strips of surgical plaster or glue can be applied to the incisions. Then the patient is transferred to the postoperative observation ward.