Surgery for Graves’ Disease
Graves' disease is a autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland and causes it to produce too much thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety. One goal of treatment for Graves’ disease is to stop the thyroid from making too much thyroid hormone. Surgery is a treatment option for some people with Graves’ disease. It may be considered if anti-thyroid medications do not work, large thyroid nodules are present, or the thyroid is very enlarged and causing complications such as difficulty breathing or swallowing.
A thyroidectomy is a surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland. If the thyroid gland is completely removed, the body cannot make thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormone pills may be needed to provide the body with the thyroid hormone needed for many of the body’s functions.
The doctor will provide specific instructions to prepare for the surgery and recovery after the surgery. Here’s what to generally expect:
- Pre-procedure Preparation:
- The doctor will provide guidelines on what to eat or drink before the surgery and which medications to avoid, especially those that can interfere with blood clotting.
- Quit smoking: Smoking reduces blood circulation and hinders healing, so it's advisable to stop smoking for at least 12 weeks before the surgery.
- Arrange for transportation: Organize a ride home after the surgery.
- Arrange for additional help if needed: If you anticipate needing extra assistance after returning home from surgery, make sure to plan for this in advance.
- Step-by-Step Description of Surgery:
- The specific approach and procedure will be explained by the doctor or surgeon.
- Risks, benefits, and alternatives to the surgery will also be discussed.
- The expected duration of the surgery will be provided.
- The doctor will inform you about how long you can expect to stay in the hospital and how long the overall recovery process may take.
- Recovery and Follow-up:
- After the surgery, the doctor may recommend light exercises like walking to keep your body moving.
- The doctor will provide instructions for recovery, including activities to avoid, medications to take or resume, and when to call the doctor, such as for pain or redness at the surgery site or for fever after surgery.
- The surgeon will typically schedule a follow-up appointment around 2-3 weeks after the procedure.
- The doctor taking care of your thyroid condition will schedule a follow-up appointment around a week after the procedure.
It's important to note that each individual's preparation for surgery may vary based on their specific situation. Always follow your surgeon's specific instructions regarding preparation for surgery. This may involve giving informed consent, asking any questions you have, completing necessary tests or scans, stopping smoking or certain medications prior to surgery, and refraining from eating or drinking for a certain period of time before the procedure.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for side effect information.