Definition
The thyroid gland is located in the front part of the neck directly in front of the windpipe. It consists of 2 lobes and is mainly responsible for the human metabolism as well as for the calcium supply for the bones. This is regulated by the production of certain hormones.
Various diseases affecting the thyroid gland can either lead to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. These are mainly manifested by changes in weight, sensation of heat and cold, heart rate and activity level. There are various causes that make surgical removal of the thyroid gland, a so-called thyroidectomy, necessary. Removal of the thyroid gland can be performed on one or both sides, depending on whether only one lobe or both are responsible for the symptoms.
Causes of thyroidectomy
There are many different reasons for removing the thyroid gland. These can be both benign (benign) and malignant (malignant) changes. Depending on whether only one side or both sides are affected, a total removal of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) is performed or only one side of the thyroid gland is removed (hemithyroidectomy).
An enlargement of the thyroid gland is called goiter. If the thyroid gland is characterized by nodular changes, the affected part or the whole thyroid gland can be removed to prevent recurrence. The thyroid gland is also enlarged in the autoimmune disease Graves’ disease, and removal may be necessary in severe cases.
Malignant tumors of the thyroid gland are a frequent cause for thyroidectomy. There are different types of thyroid carcinomas, which are differently aggressive. However, in all types, the thyroid gland is partially or even completely removed in order to cure the patient.
Many benign tumors do not need to be removed despite enlargement of the thyroid gland as long as they do not cause any discomfort. However, if problems occur, for example, in the form of shortness of breath, if the windpipe is constricted, or swallowing difficulties, surgery should be performed. Even if the enlargement is a so-called adenoma, surgical removal of the thyroid gland may be necessary.
An adenoma is a tumor that produces hormones itself. This can lead to a metabolic derailment, which can be very dangerous for the person affected. Overproduction is prevented by the operation.
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