Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal) is a common procedure that is sometimes required for tumours/ cancer, goitre or an overactive thyroid gland. The nerve that supplies the voice box lies directly under the gland and careful dissection is required to preserve function. Parathyroid glands regulate calcium in the body and are found adjacent to the thyroid. These glands must also be preserved to avoid the need for lifelong calcium replacement.

Best results for thyroid surgery are acheived with:

• correct pre-operative work-up, staging and planning
• complete tumour removal
• nerve preservation techniques
• careful preservation of parathyroid glands
• adequate removal of thyroid tissue
• removal of surrounding lymph nodes if required
• limited scar