5 Signs You're a Candidate for Thyroid Surgery

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that helps regulate metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance. The thyroid gland is vulnerable to various conditions that can compromise its function, from hypothyroidism (decreased hormone production) to benign nodules to cancer.

Some thyroid issues, such as hypothyroidism, often can be treated with medication. But some require surgery, known as thyroidectomy. ENT specialist and surgeon Dr. Philip T. Ho at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center in Los Gatos, California, has significant experience in partial and full thyroidectomy procedures. 

Here are five signs that you might be a candidate for thyroid surgery:

1. Thyroid nodules

Many times, these growths that develop within the thyroid gland are benign and harmless. But, some may be malignant (cancerous) or cause other complications.

Dr. Ho may recommend surgery if the nodule is:

• Large enough to cause discomfort
• Creating difficulty swallowing
• Suspecting of being thyroid cancer
• Causing hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism can cause atrial fibrillation (heart arrhythmia), vision problems, brittle bones, and other significant health complications.  

2. Thyroid cancer

If you have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, surgery is often a primary treatment option. The goal is to remove the cancerous tissue and prevent its spread.

Types of thyroid cancer that may require surgery include those originating in the gland:

• Papillary thyroid cancer
• Follicular thyroid cancer
• Medullary thyroid cancer
• Anaplastic thyroid cancer

Kidney cell cancer, lung cancer, and other types of cancer can also metastasize (spread) to the thyroid gland.  

3. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as rapid heart rate, weight loss, and nervousness.

This condition often responds well to conservative therapies such as oral medication or iodine treatment. However, surgery may be necessary if these therapies aren’t successful or when large nodules suspected of causing it are present.

4. Goiter

A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland that may include thyroid nodules. While it can be asymptomatic, if the gland becomes large enough to press on the trachea, causing difficulty breathing or swallowing, Dr. Ho may recommend thyroidectomy.

5. Recurrent thyroid issues

If you have had previous thyroid treatments or a partial thyroidectomy but continue to experience issues, you may require a complete thyroidectomy. These issues could include recurrent thyroid nodules or goiter.

If a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy indicates malignant or suspicious cells within the thyroid, surgery is often recommended to remove the affected tissue and prevent the potential spread of cancer.

Before scheduling a procedure, Dr. Ho will discuss your options, including the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of surgery. Before surgery, you may require preoperative testing, including thyroid imaging studies.

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Ho at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center today. Call the office or request an appointment online.