Thyroid & Parathyroid Treatment
Thyroid Tumors Treatment
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the throat that controls the body’s heart rate, temperatures and metabolism. Tumors within the thyroid gland are somewhat common, but most are not cancerous. However, thyroid tumors may lead to an overactive or underactive thyroid, depending on the type, size and location of the lesion. Overactive thyroid hormone production, known as hyperthyroidism, is a common condition that causes an increase in metabolic function throughout the body. An overactive thyroid is often caused by an adenoma, which causes the gland to enlarge.If left untreated, this condition can lead to kidney problems or extreme stress on vital organs. It is important for patients to seek proper medical attention for thyroid tumors in order to reduce the risk of complications. We offer comprehensive thyroid care in our Santa Monica office.
Thyroidectomy
Thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of the thyroid gland. Depending on the cause and extent of the condition, part or all of the gland is removed. It is important to leave the parathyroid glands in the body, since they monitor calcium and phosphorous levels. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and usually requires an overnight hospital stay at one of our practice’s many affiliated hospitals within the Los Angeles area.
Laryngeal Nerve Monitoring
During thyroid and parathyroid surgery, the surgeon operates very close to the laryngeal nerves. Damage to the laryngeal nerves can cause difficulties in speaking and swallowing. Laryngeal monitoring reduces the occurrence of damage by identifying the nerve throughout surgery, and verifying its integrity after the procedure is completed. This offers peace of mind to both patient and surgeon, ensuring a successful surgery and lowering the risk of post-operative complications.
Parathyroid Adenoma / Hyperplasia
An adenoma is a benign tumor that may develop on one or more of the parathyroid glands and may lead to hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid), causing the gland to enlarge and produce excess amounts of parathyroid hormone. Hyperplasia refers to an enlargement of all four parathyroid glands. Both of these conditions can lead to abdominal pain, kidney stones, nausea, vomiting, increased thirst and urination, bone fractures, constipation and muscle pain. Treatment for these conditions usually involves surgical removal of the affected parathyroid glands. Patients may need to take medication after surgery in order to maintain normal levels of parathyroid hormone within the body.
Parathyroidectomy
Although medication is available to treat parathyroid conditions, surgery is most often recommended and is the only true cure for this condition. Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands is called a parathyroidectomy. During this procedure, you will be given either a general or local anesthetic. Your doctor will make a small incision in your neck and remove the gland. Each patient’s individual condition will determine how many of the parathyroid glands need to be removed. Some parathyroid tissue must be left in place to help prevent hypoparathyroidism (decreased parathyroid activity).
Contact us to learn more about Thyroid & Parathyroid Treatment. Please call to schedule a consultation with one of our physicians. (310) 477-5558 or complete the form below.
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