Hemithyroidectomy (removal of half of the thyroid gland)
Hemithyroidectomy is a surgical procedure involving removal of one lobe of the thyroid gland. This operation is performed for nodular lesions, tumors, thyroiditis, and other conditions affecting only one part of the gland.
When is hemithyroidectomy required?
- For nodular lesions confined to one thyroid lobe that interfere with normal gland function.
- In cases of benign or malignant tumors limited to one part of the thyroid gland.
- For Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or other chronic inflammatory conditions that do not respond to medical therapy.
- When a thyroid nodule causes compression of adjacent structures (esophagus, trachea), leading to difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- In hyperfunction of a single thyroid lobe (thyrotoxicosis, toxic adenoma).
How is the operation performed?
- Diagnosis and preparation – thyroid ultrasound, MRI, thyroid hormone tests, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy if indicated.
- Anesthesia – the operation is performed under general anesthesia.
- Removal of one thyroid lobe – surgical excision of the affected part of the gland.
- Preservation of the parathyroid glands and recurrent laryngeal nerve – a critical step to prevent complications.
- Postoperative period – observation, monitoring of hormonal status, and recovery of body functions.
Main advantages of hemithyroidectomy in Belarus
- Preservation of part of the thyroid gland – in most cases, the remaining lobe compensates for thyroid function.
- Lower risk of hypothyroidism – lifelong hormone replacement therapy is often not required.
- A tissue-sparing approach – less traumatic compared to total thyroidectomy.
- Short recovery period – patients typically return to normal life within 1–2 weeks.
- Use of modern surgical technologies – minimizes complication risk and provides a good cosmetic result.
The operation is performed in leading endocrinology and surgical clinics in Belarus using modern technologies. Experienced specialists ensure precise intervention, minimal discomfort, and rapid patient recovery.
This text has been translated using machine translation technology (DeepL API) and may contain inaccuracies.
