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Thyroidectomy in Autoimmune Diseases at the Helуos Surgery and Rehabilitation Center

Thyroidectomy for autoimmune diseases is an extreme measure used when other treatment methods (medication or radioactive iodine therapy) do not provide the desired results or when serious complications arise. Autoimmune diseases of the thyroid gland include conditions such as Graves' disease (Basedow's disease), Hashimoto's disease, and other disorders where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Removal of the thyroid gland in case of autoimmune diseases 1

Main Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases:

Hyperthyroidism (Graves' Disease) — a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive hormones, leading to accelerated metabolism and potential issues with the heart, nervous system, and other organs.
Hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s Disease) — a condition where the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones, leading to fatigue, depression, weight gain, and other symptoms.
Goiter — an enlargement of the thyroid gland due to autoimmune processes that can create pressure on the trachea or esophagus, affecting breathing and swallowing.

Indications for Thyroidectomy in Autoimmune Diseases:

Need for radical treatment — when medication methods do not control the symptoms or the disease progresses.
Large nodules or goiter — creating mechanical pressure on the trachea or esophagus, impairing breathing and swallowing.
Toxic goiter in Graves' disease, when other treatment methods (iodine therapy or medication) are ineffective.
Suspicion of thyroid cancer — which may arise in autoimmune diseases or when malignant changes in tissue are suspected.
Allergic reactions to hormone treatment or iodine.

How is the Surgery Performed?

Pre-surgical Preparation:

Before surgery, the patient undergoes a comprehensive diagnosis, including ultrasound of the thyroid, hormone tests, and possibly biopsy of tissues. The doctor determines whether partial or total thyroidectomy is needed.

Surgical Preparation:

Consultation with an anesthesiologist to choose the optimal anesthesia. (Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.)
Pre-surgical preparation includes general blood tests, ECG, and possibly stabilizing medications for thyroid function.

Surgery:

Surgery is performed through a small incision in the neck. Depending on the severity of the disease, partial thyroidectomy (removal of one lobe of the thyroid) or total thyroidectomy (removal of the entire gland) may be performed.
If large nodules or goiter are present, the surgeon may remove surrounding tissues to prevent complications.
The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on complexity.

Postoperative Recovery:

The patient remains under medical supervision for 1-3 days after surgery.
Hormonal therapy may be prescribed after surgery since the removal of the thyroid gland leads to hormonal imbalance.
Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor hormone levels and overall health.

Removal of the thyroid gland in case of autoimmune diseases 3

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Benefits of Surgery at the Helуos Center:

Experienced endocrine surgeons with expertise in thyroid surgeries.
Modern equipment for accurate diagnosis and surgical intervention.
Individualized patient care to ensure the best outcomes and minimal recovery time.
Quick recovery and minimal risk of complications.
Comprehensive treatment approach, including consultations with other specialists and continuous monitoring after surgery.