A thyroid lobectomy can be performed for a number of reasons, including ambiguous lesions on fine needle biopsy, substernal goitre, and an expanding thyroid nodule, to name a few. Some surgeons prefer to a thyroid lobectomy as a diagnostic lobectomy in cases of ambiguous lesions because the major goal of the procedure is to determine whether the patient has cancer or benign thyroid disease. Approximately one week following the operation, the final pathology is ready. Thyroid hormone replacement medications are not required in about 70% of patients who have half of a normal thyroid gland left in place.

Any leftover thyroid tissue is removed during a completion thyroidectomy.

A completion thyroidectomy is commonly performed if a thyroid lobectomy reveals malignancy in the first half of the thyroid, although it can also be performed in the case of multinodular goitre or hyperthyroidism. Patients will need to take thyroid hormone replacement medications after a complete thyroidectomy (one pill a day for the rest of their lives).

The sort of thyroid operation to do is determined by a number of criteria, including the patient’s preferences and the type of condition. Working with a team of thyroid specialists to select the best procedure for each patient is crucial.