Thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid gland)

Thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure involving partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland. The extent of surgery is determined individually and depends on the nature of the disease and the extent of tissue involvement.

At the medical center «Oxford Medical» in Kyiv, thyroidectomy is performed in a high-technology surgical inpatient facility. Procedures are carried out by experienced surgeons specializing in thyroid surgery.

The surgical department is equipped with modern expert-class equipment. In particular, there is an intensive care unit with wards equipped with systems for monitoring and supporting vital functions.

Treatment at «Oxford Medical» is based on a comprehensive approach. Surgery is only one stage of care and includes thorough preoperative preparation, inpatient monitoring after the intervention, and further medical follow-up. This organization allows continuous monitoring of the patient’s condition and creates optimal conditions for effective treatment and stable recovery.

Make an appointment for a doctor’s consultation to receive individual recommendations regarding surgical treatment.

Thyroidectomy is a planned surgical procedure; therefore, before surgery, the patient’s general condition and the presence of factors that may increase the risk of complications are carefully assessed.

The main contraindications to thyroidectomy include:

• acute infectious diseases or exacerbation of chronic inflammatory processes;
• severe cardiovascular or respiratory diseases in the stage of decompensation;
• pronounced renal dysfunction;
• disorders of the blood coagulation system that cannot be corrected;
• severe general condition of the patient that does not allow safe surgical intervention.

In most cases, these contraindications are temporary. After appropriate treatment, correction of concomitant conditions, and repeated assessment, the possibility of performing thyroidectomy is reconsidered. The final decision regarding the feasibility and safety of surgery is made individually based on examination results and specialist consultations.

Preparation for thyroid removal surgery is an important stage aimed at assessing the patient’s general condition, clarifying the diagnosis, and reducing the risk of postoperative complications. The scope of preoperative examination is determined individually.

Standard preparation includes:

• ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland;
• laboratory blood tests, including thyroid hormone levels;
• fine-needle aspiration biopsy of nodular formations, if indicated;
• electrocardiography;
• general and biochemical blood tests;
• assessment of blood coagulation;
• determination of blood group and Rh factor.

If necessary, additional examinations may be prescribed, including computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, thyroid scintigraphy, and consultations with related specialists.

Before surgery, the patient is examined by an anesthesiologist, who assesses the general condition and selects the optimal anesthesia strategy. According to the doctor’s recommendations, certain medications may be temporarily adjusted.

On the day before surgery, heavy food should be avoided. The last meal should be no later than 8 hours before the procedure. On the day of surgery, the patient must remain fasting.

Following all preparation recommendations allows the procedure to be performed safely and ensures a predictable postoperative course.

Thyroidectomy is performed using an open surgical approach through an incision in the neck. This method is standard in modern endocrine surgery and allows highly accurate removal of affected tissues or the entire gland.

The operation is carried out in an operating room after hospitalization in the surgical inpatient unit. Before surgery, standard preoperative preparation is completed, followed by administration of general anesthesia. Vital signs are continuously monitored throughout the procedure.

During thyroidectomy, the surgeon isolates the thyroid gland and removes one lobe, most of the gland, or the entire organ, depending on the planned extent of surgery. In oncological cases, the procedure may be expanded to include lymph node dissection.

After completion of the main stage, the surgical field is inspected, and sutures are placed. The patient is then transferred to the postoperative ward for early monitoring.

In most patients, the postoperative condition is stable, and they are transferred to single or double hotel-type rooms under constant medical supervision.

In the absence of complications, patients usually begin to get up and gradually return to physical activity on the first day after surgery. The duration of hospitalization depends on the extent of surgery and individual recovery characteristics.

After discharge, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations and attend scheduled follow-up examinations.

Nutrition after thyroid removal plays an important role in recovery. A balanced diet with sufficient protein, vitamins, and trace elements is recommended to support metabolism and overall recovery.

For successful rehabilitation after thyroidectomy, patients are advised to:

• properly care for the postoperative wound;
• take prescribed medications, including hormone replacement therapy if indicated;
• gradually resume physical activity as recommended;
• avoid significant physical exertion during the first weeks;
• follow dietary and daily routine recommendations;
• attend all scheduled follow-up visits.

A comprehensive approach to postoperative care helps ensure stable recovery and reduces the risk of complications.

When surgery is performed correctly and medical recommendations are followed, the risk of complications is minimal.

Possible complications include:

• bleeding or postoperative hematoma in the surgical area;
• temporary or persistent voice changes due to nerve irritation or damage;
• decreased blood calcium levels caused by impaired parathyroid gland function;
• infectious complications of the surgical wound;
• swelling of soft tissues in the neck.

In most cases, these complications are temporary and treatable. Regular follow-up, laboratory monitoring, and timely medical consultation help minimize risks and ensure safe recovery.

The cost of thyroidectomy depends on:

• the extent of surgery — complete or partial removal of the thyroid gland, as well as the need for additional surgical procedures;
• the duration and conditions of the inpatient stay after surgery.

You can review prices in advance here. A more accurate cost is determined by the doctor after consultation, examination, and diagnostic evaluation.