The thyroid gland is situated in the neck, and thyroid nodules have abnormal growths on them. Although benign thyroid nodules constitute the majority, some can be malignant.
Surgery may be advised if a nodule is producing symptoms, is enlarging or expanding quickly, or is thought to be cancerous. The top 4 facts concerning thyroid nodule surgery will be covered in this post.
Fact #1: Types of Thyroid Nodule Surgery
Although benign thyroid nodules predominate, some are malignant. Only about 5% (10%-15% at most) of all thyroid nodules are thyroid cancers. Surgery on thyroid nodules for cancer is identical to thyroid nodule surgery on thyroid growths without malignancy.
There are two types of thyroid nodule surgery: partial thyroidectomy and total thyroidectomy. A partial thyroidectomy involves removing only the portion of the thyroid gland that contains the nodule. A total thyroidectomy involves removing the entire thyroid gland.
The decision to perform a partial or total thyroidectomy depends on several factors, including the size and location of the nodule, the presence of cancer, and whether there are other nodules or thyroid conditions. Removal of complete thyroid surgery is riskier than surgery of half thyroid.
This is because both sides of the neck are operated on, potentially damaging all four parathyroid glands (calcium control glands) and all voice box nerves. Thus, only highly experienced, high-volume surgeons should do thyroid nodule surgery that involves an entire thyroid ectomy.
Fact #2 – Surgery may be required for some benign (non-cancerous) nodules and multiple nodules.
During a patient evaluation, thyroid nodules are frequently identified as benign by needle biopsy. Despite being benign, almost all of these nodules will develop or grow over time. So, one factor in benign thyroid nodule surgery is size. Thyroid nodule surgery should be used to remove any nodule that is 4 cm or bigger.
Also frequently requiring thyroid surgery are nodules with abnormal or suspicious-looking cells on biopsy. This enables a certain diagnosis and treatment. Surgery may be necessary if there are several thyroid nodules, especially if they are part of a goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid.
Even if a nodule or two or three nodules are benign after a needle biopsy, thyroid nodule surgery is frequently necessary for multinodular goiter because of a number of factors. First, monitoring and needle biopsying more than 2-3 nodules are highly difficult and impractical.
Second, goiter and numerous thyroid nodules frequently result in symptoms over time. Thyroid nodule surgery is needed for symptomatic nodules. The unattractive visual appearance of a huge lump in the neck or the symptoms brought on by the goiter’s true size are the most frequent signs or complaints of a multinodular goiter.
Fact #3: Risks and Benefits of Thyroid Nodule Surgery and Treatment for Thyroid Calcification
Like any surgery, thyroid nodule surgery carries risks, including bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding structures, and changes in voice or swallowing. However, the benefits of surgery may outweigh the risks, especially if the nodule is causing symptoms or is suspicious of cancer.
Surgery can also provide a definitive diagnosis and may prevent the need for future surgeries or treatments. Thyroid calcification is a common finding on ultrasound and can be associated with thyroid nodules. Treatment for thyroid calcification depends on the size and location of the calcification and any associated nodules.
Small calcifications without nodules may not require treatment, but larger or symptomatic calcifications may require biopsy or surgery to remove the affected tissue.
Fact# 4- Surgery Gives the Most Accurate Nodule Diagnosis
Prior to surgery, a needle biopsy is typically done to get a diagnosis and inform treatment. Patients should be aware that thyroid biopsies are only as accurate and trustworthy as the pathologists examining the cells and the individuals executing them.
The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology for Thyroid Nodules is used to classify the findings of a thyroid needle biopsy. These are the diagnostic categories:
- inadequate or non-diagnostic
- Benign
- Follicular lesions of uncertain significance (FUS) or atypia of unclear significance (AUS) (FLUS)
- Follicular cancer or something that might be one
- Suspicious of Cancer
Cost of Thyroid Nodule Surgery in Mumbai
The cost of thyroid nodule surgery in Mumbai, India, can vary depending on several factors, including the type of surgery, the hospital or clinic, and the surgeon’s experience.
According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the cost of thyroid nodule surgery in Mumbai ranged from 20,000 to 60,000 Indian Rupees (approximately $270 to $800 USD) for a partial thyroidectomy and 40,000 to 90,000 Rupees (approximately $540 to $1,200 USD) for a total thyroidectomy. The cost may be lower or higher depending on the individual case and any additional treatments or tests required.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, thyroid nodule surgery is a common and effective treatment for thyroid nodules that are causing symptoms, growing rapidly, or are suspicious for cancer. There are two types of surgery, partial and total thyroidectomy, and the decision to perform surgery depends on several factors.
While surgery carries risks, the benefits may outweigh the risks, and surgery can provide a definitive diagnosis and prevent the need for future treatments. Treatment for thyroid calcification depends on the size and location, and the cost of thyroid nodule surgery in Mumbai can vary depending on several factors.
If you have a thyroid nodule, talk to your doctor about your treatment options and what to expect from surgery. Thyroid nodules are common, and while most are benign, some can become cancerous.
When a thyroid nodule grows, it can cause discomfort or difficulty swallowing or breathing, and surgery may be recommended. So, these were the top 4 facts about thyroid nodule surgery:
- It is typically an outpatient procedure
- The surgery can be done with a small incision
- The patient may need to take thyroid hormone replacement medication after surgery
- The recovery time is typically quick, with most patients able to resume normal activities within a week. It is important to talk with your doctor about the risks and 4 benefits of thyroid nodule surgery and any questions or concerns you may have.
