Thyroidectomy, a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the thyroid gland, is generally safe but not without risks. The severity of complications can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and individual patient factors.
Potential complications include:
- Hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding post-surgery can lead to swelling and pressure buildup around the neck wound, potentially impacting breathing and requiring urgent medical attention to prevent fatal outcomes.
- Thyroid Storm: In rare cases, removal of an overactive thyroid gland can trigger a surge in thyroid hormones in the blood, though preventive medication is typically administered prior to surgery to mitigate this risk.
- Injury to the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve: Damage to this nerve, responsible for vocal cord function, can result in vocal cord paralysis, leading to hoarseness or difficulty speaking, and in severe cases, breathing difficulties if both vocal cords are affected.
- Injury to the Superior Laryngeal Nerve: Damage to this nerve can impair a person’s ability to produce high-pitched sounds and affect voice projection, particularly concerning for vocalists and singers.
- Hypoparathyroidism: Accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands during surgery can lead to decreased production of parathyroid hormone, resulting in low blood calcium levels, necessitating ongoing management.
- Wound Infection: Proper wound care post-surgery is crucial to prevent infections, which can cause pain and, in severe cases, lead to keloid formation and permanent facial skin damage.
These complications underscore the importance of skilled surgical technique, thorough pre-operative evaluation, and diligent post-operative care to minimize risks and optimize outcomes for patients undergoing thyroidectomy.