Thyroid Surgery
30 July 2025 –
Ernesto Escobar, MD
The thyroid is an organ located in the central region of the neck, shaped like a “shield” or “butterfly.” Its function is to regulate metabolism through the hormones it produces: Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). Among these, T3 is the metabolically active hormone.
Various conditions can cause thyroid dysfunction, leading to either excessive production of thyroid hormones (Hyperthyroidism) or insufficient hormone production (Hypothyroidism). Additionally, thyroid nodules (tumors) may develop, some of which can undergo malignant transformation (thyroid cancer)..
The most common indication for thyroid surgery is the presence of nodules. Not all nodules are malignant; however, many can cause compressive symptoms such as shortness of breath (dyspnea), compression of the recurrent laryngeal nerves causing hoarseness or dysphonia, and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
An enlargement of the thyroid gland is referred to as a “goiter.”
In summary, the main indications for Thyroidectomy (surgical removal of the thyroid) include:
a. Failure of medical treatment for thyroid disease
b. Thyroid nodule with compressive symptoms
c. Cosmetic reasons (large nodules, goiter)
d. Thyroid cancer