Graves’ Disease Surgical Treatment
If medications do not control hyperthyroidism or there are complications, such as heart issues, it may be necessary to perform surgery to treat Graves disease. A thyroidectomy is the most common form of surgery. The thyroid gland is removed in whole or in part during this procedure. The thyroidectomy is a major operation that can be effective in treating hyperthyroidism. However, there are risks associated with it, such as bleeding and infection. (11)
Total thyroidectomy
Total thyroidectomy is the surgical procedure of removing the entire thyroid gland. Surgery is usually performed to treat thyroid carcinoma, but can also be used for other conditions like Graves’ disease or goiters. When medications do not work, this type of surgery can be used to treat Graves’ disease. Total thyroidectomy can be a safe, effective and painless treatment for graves’ disease. The procedure takes about 2-3 hours and is done under general anesthesia. The recovery time depends on each individual. However, most people can return to work in 2 weeks.
The surgery may come with some risks, including damage to the laryngeal or vocal cords.
Partial Thyroidectomy
Partial thyroidectomy is an option for certain people. Partial thyroidectomy is the removal of only a part of your thyroid gland. This surgery is usually recommended to people with a mild condition, or graves disease which has only affected a part of the gland.
General anesthesia is usually used for the surgery. The surgeon makes a small incision perpendicularly in the neck and uses a scalpel for the removal of the tumor or affected tissues. The wound is stitched up. After a partial thyroidectomy, most people can return home within a few hours. Recovery usually takes between one and two weeks.
The recovery time is shorter with this procedure. People with Graves’ disease may choose this procedure if they do not wish to undergo surgery to remove the entire thyroid gland. Both surgeries have their risks and benefits, so you should discuss your options with your doctor.
