Thyroid and Parotid Surgery

Thyroid and parotid surgeries are two common procedures performed by otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat specialists) or head and neck surgeons to treat conditions affecting the thyroid gland and the parotid gland, respectively.

Thyroid Surgery:

• Indications: Thyroid surgery may be recommended for various thyroid conditions, including thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, Graves' disease (hyperthyroidism), and multinodular goiter.

• Types of Thyroid Surgery:

  • Thyroidectomy: This involves the removal of part (subtotal thyroidectomy) or all (total thyroidectomy) of the thyroid gland. The extent of surgery depends on the underlying condition and the size and characteristics of the thyroid nodules or tumors.
  • Hemithyroidectomy: In some cases, only one lobe (hemithyroidectomy) of the thyroid gland may be removed, typically for benign thyroid nodules or unilateral thyroid cancer.

Parotid Surgery:

• Indications: Parotid surgery is performed to remove tumors or treat other conditions affecting the parotid gland, which is the largest of the salivary glands located in front of the ears.

• Types of Parotid Surgery:

  • Parotidectomy: This involves the surgical removal of part (partial parotidectomy) or all (total parotidectomy) of the parotid gland. The extent of surgery depends on factors such as the size, location, and nature of the parotid tumor.