Frequently asked questions

If you need thyroid surgery, it's important to know which one to expect. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions as possible.

How long will I be hospitalized?

According to the surgery performed and the evolution of the postoperative period but generally between 24 and 72 hours after the intervention. In selected cases, outpatient surgery may be offered.

What type of anesthesia?

General anesthesia

Do I have a scar?

All surgery causes yes to mark with a scar, and how the scars patients are dependent on the individual.

However, there are some techniques that surgeons use to minimize scarring. These techniques include: a smaller incision size, careful incision placement, and hypoallergic suture material (prevent inflammation).

As a rule, it is unusual for adults to have a tender scar after six months.

Do I have pain after the operation?

All operations involve some pain and discomfort. Our goal is to minimize this discomfort. Although you should be able to eat and drink normally, the main complaint is pain with swallowing.

When will I know the results of the surgery?

During the operation, your surgeon will consult with the pathologist who will provide a preliminary diagnosis. However, the final report of the pathology requires careful study of the surgical specimen. Therefore, the final report is not usually available until about a week after the operation.

Do I have physical restrictions after my surgery?

Swimming is the only main restriction. In general, your activity level depends on the amount of discomfort you experience. Most patients can return to work within the first two weeks, and you can drive as soon as your head can be turned comfortably (this limitation is for driver safety). Post-surgery visits with your surgeon will expand the information of your incorporation into the normality of the daily routine.

What are the complications unique to thyroid surgery?

In about 1 in 250 thyroid operations, the nerves that control the voice are affected by thyroid surgery. When this occurs, the main difficulties are voice projection and production of high-pitched and/or loud sounds or when trying to shout.

It is usually described as hoarse and/or aphony. Generally, voice changes are temporary, so the voice will return to normal within a few weeks; Permanent change is rare.

In about 1 in 300 thyroid operations, the parathyroid glands will not function as a result of surgery. These are four glands that are located near the thyroid.

Since the parathyroid glands control calcium levels, their dysfunction usually results in a low level of calcium. Therefore, some patients require calcium supplementation on a temporary basis.

If the parathyroids do not function properly, calcium or vitamin D may be needed on a permanent basis.