A minimally invasive procedure, laparoscopic thyroidectomy is the removal of the thyroid gland. A laparoscope and several small incisions made in the neck are used to accomplish the procedure.
Also Known As:
- Laparoscopy
- Laparoscopic thyroid surgery
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Thyroid surgery
- Neck surgery
Conditions Treated with a Laparoscopic Thyroidectomy:
A laparoscopic thyroidectomy is utilized to treat conditions such as hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer and an enlarged thyroid gland.
Non-surgical alternatives to a laparoscopic thyroidectomy include thyroid medications and radioactive iodine. A partial laparoscopic thyroidectomy or an open thyroidectomy may be performed as surgical alternatives.
Anesthesia with a Laparoscopic Thyroidectomy:
A laparoscopic thyroidectomy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from a Laparoscopic Thyroidectomy:
Possible risks following a laparoscopic thyroidectomy include infection, bleeding and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. Some patients also experience blood clotting and neck pain or experience pain while swallowing. Other potential complications include injury to nearby organs and tissues, hypoparathyroidism, hypocalcemia and hypothyroidism.
Prognosis after a Laparoscopic Thyroidectomy:
The prognosis for a positive end result following a laparoscopic thyroidectomy is good. However, a total thyroidectomy results in hypothyroidism, which requires the patient to undergo hormone replacement surgery.
Recovery from a Laparoscopic Thyroidectomy:
The total recovery time following a laparoscopic thyroidectomy is one to two weeks.