THYROID & PARATHYROID GLANDS SURGERY
SURGERY OF THE THYROID
The surgeon removes part or all of the thyroid while taking care to avoid injury to nearby blood vessels and nerves.
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The incision will be closed with metal clips or sutures. A drain tube attached to a plastic bottle may be inserted into the incision in the final stage of surgery to prevent fluid from accumulating. The drain tube is usually removed one or two days after surgery. The skin closures either dissolve or are removed a few days after surgery
SURGERY OF THE PARATHYROID GLAND
The surgeon will move the thyroid gland to one side to allow access to the four parathyroid glands.
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The surgeon will remove one, two, three or all four of the parathyroids.
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The incision will be closed with metal clips or sutures. A drain tube attached to a plastic bottle may be inserted into the incision in the final stage of surgery to prevent fluid from accumulating. The drain tube is usually removed one or two days after surgery. The skin closures either dissolve or are removed a few days after surgery.
RECOVERY AFTER THE SURGERY
You will be nursed in a sitting position with your neck well supported. This position will help to reduce swelling and reduce strain on the incision and neck. Your surgeon will tell you when you can move your neck. A nurse will assess you for signs of low calcium. By the day following your surgery, you will be able to sit in a chair and walk short distances.
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Pain relieving medicine will be prescribed. A “drip” will provide fluid until you are able to drink. Swallowing and eating may be difficult for the first day or two as you will have some soreness and swelling around your neck.