Disclaimer

• I understand and agree that this health education program includes general information and not specific medical advice
• If I have any questions I will check with my health care provider

Thyroid gland is an important gland that regulates how the body works

• The parathyroid gland controls and regulates the calcium and phosphorus level in the body

Different diseases can affect both glands

• These diseases are common and easy to treat
• Both glands are located in the neck and in proximity to many vital structures
• Any disturbance in the secretion of hormones from the thyroid or parathyroid gland can cause problems with body metabolism

Many symptoms may arise from such disturbances

• These include: weight gain, weight loss, constipation, disturbance of the menstrual cycle, skin/hair/nails changes, weakness, irritability to name a few
• Low Iodine may cause hypothyroidism
• Abnormality in thyroid function can be an indicator of auto immune disease

Nodules of thyroid gland

• These are common and can be benign or malignant.
• The following steps are important in the diagnosis of thyroid and parathyroid problems: family history, physical examination and various additional tests

Many tests can be performed

• Ultra sound tests
• CAT scan
• Radio iodine test may be indicated
• Needle biopsy might be indicated

Treating thyroid and parathyroid conditions

• These might be surgical and non surgical
• The success of treatment lies in the cooperation between your surgeon, endocrinologist and your primary care physician

Thyroid and parathyroid surgery is done usually under general anesthesia

• Thyroid and parathyroid gland can be approached by conventional open surgery
• Minimal invasive laparoscopic techniques can be used to give best cosmetic results

Thyroid parathyroid surgery is safe

• But there are several possible risks and complications which are unlikely but possible
• Talk to your surgeon about those risks
• At our center we use the most current, advanced techniques in thyroid and parathyroid surgery to reduce these compilations
• Continuous nerve monitoring (MNS MONTORE) and harmonic scalpel used during surgery will help to reduce those risks

Don’t hesitate to call us if you have any questions - 703-888-0731