Thyroid Surgery
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer occurs most often as the papillary type, followed by the follicular, medullary, and rare anaplastic types. Papillary cancer mostly has a good prognosis, and long-term survival after appropriate surgery is high.
Overview
Treatment includes total thyroidectomy or hemithyroidectomy, central or lateral neck lymph node dissection when necessary, and radioactive iodine therapy in selected cases. TSH-suppressive levothyroxine therapy is an important element of follow-up.
Who Is It For?
- Patients with a thyroid nodule whose fine-needle biopsy result is malignant or suspicious
- Cases of known thyroid cancer with lymph node or distant metastasis
- Carriers with a family history or genetic predisposition (RET, BRAF)
- Individuals with a history of neck radiotherapy in whom a nodule is detected
Treatment Process
- 1
Pre-Assessment & Diagnosis
The diagnosis is confirmed and the stage of the disease clarified through a detailed history, physical examination and the necessary imaging and laboratory tests.
- 2
Planning & Preparation
An anaesthesia consultation, bleeding profile and review of any accompanying conditions are carried out; a multidisciplinary council decision is taken when needed.
- 3
Procedure / Operation
The procedure is performed with the technique most suitable for the patient (laparoscopic, robotic or open); tissue integrity and oncological principles are preserved.
- 4
Follow-up & Monitoring
Early mobilization, pain control and wound monitoring are provided; suture removal and a general assessment check-up are planned after discharge.
Recovery & Aftercare
After neuromonitoring-assisted surgery, patients are usually discharged on the first day; voice and calcium monitoring is performed routinely.
Hospital Stay
1-2 days
Recovery Time
1-2 weeks
Follow-up
Day 10, week 6, 3 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Is thyroid cancer fatal?
Papillary and follicular thyroid cancer provide high long-term survival with appropriate treatment. The anaplastic type is rare and aggressive; every patient should be evaluated according to their type.
Is radioactive iodine given to every patient?
No. It is planned in selected patients according to tumor type, size, lymph node involvement, and the presence of distant metastasis.
Does hoarseness remain after the operation?
With neuromonitoring, the rate of permanent hoarseness is below 1%. Temporary voice changes resolve within 4 to 6 weeks.
How is the levothyroxine dose adjusted?
It is adjusted individually according to the TSH target; TSH suppression is aimed for in high-risk cases, while the normal range is aimed for in low-risk cases.
The medical information on this page has been reviewed by Prof. Dr. Vahit Onur Gül. Last updated: 31 Temmuz 2026.
This information is for general guidance only and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician about your symptoms.
Content officer / site editor: vahitonurgul@hotmail.com