Thyroid surgery
Millions of Germans suffer from thyroid gland disorders. The complaints are manifold, since the small organ below the larynx produces hormones that influence all metabolic processes of the body.
When is surgial treatment necessary
In many cases, hyper- or hypofunction can be treated with medication or radioiodine therapy. Reasons for a thyroid gland operation are:
- Cold nodes, for which only an operation can reliably clarify whether they are benign or malignant
- Hot nodes, so diseases associated with hyperthyroidism, if there are reasons against radioiodine therapy
- Significant enlargement of the thyroid gland with symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing or lumps in the throat
- Significant enlargement of the thyroid gland with symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing or globus sensation (as of a lump in the throat)
If a relapse occurs after one year of conservative therapy, surgery is usually necessary as well.
The first step: The correct diagnostics
After a detailed conversation about your complaints, we will palpate your throat to detect thickening and swelling. This is followed by an ultrasound, a scintigraphy and a blood test.
Due to the close cooperation with the present endocrinologists, ear, nose and throat specialists, radiologists and nuclear physicians, the necessary diagnostics can be excellently coordinated and carried out quickly. If necessary, we use a CT, MRI or PET-CT for special questions.
Individual treatment
During the consultation, we will explain the available findings in detail and recommend the most suitable surgical procedure for you. Depending on the indication, the operation can range from partial to complete removal of the thyroid gland and, in the case of malignant diseases, may also involve resection of the surrounding lymph nodes.