Thyroid Cancer

What is Thyroid Cancer?

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland of internal secretion located in the front part of the neck, in front of the windpipe. This secretory gland, where thyroid hormones are produced, ensures the proper functioning of tissues and organs in the body. “What is thyroid cancer?” the answer to the question is that it is possible to identify the nodules located inside the thyroid gland are malignant. Thyroid cancer, which is rarer than other types of cancer, is more common in women, although the cause is unknown. In addition to gender, some factors also cause thyroid cancer. In addition, thyroid cancer can occur at an early age, as well as a type of cancer that can improve at a high rate with treatment. For this reason, the mortality rate of thyroid cancer is low compared to other cancers.

Thyroid Cancer Surgery

The main method used for the treatment of thyroid cancer is surgery. In this treatment method, in which it is necessary to remove all or half of the thyroid gland, if the tumor has also spread to the lymph nodes, this area is also removed during surgery. The method that will be applied in the operation performed with a 7-8 cm incision opened on the neck also varies depending on the type of cancer. The operation can be performed open or robotically. It is necessary for patients to learn the operation process and possible risks in detail from their doctor before surgery.

Complications such as bleeding, hoarseness, calcium deficiency may occur in the patient on the day of surgery. In addition, there may also be pain due to a cut in the throat, fatigue that comes with the effect of anesthesia. After the patient’s recovery period, the treatments continue.

After surgery, treatment of some patients is continued with radioactive iodine, depending on the size of the tumor and the spread of the cancer. The goal of this treatment is to destroy the remaining cancerous cells, if any. Some patients receive radiation therapy as a treatment method. After surgery, thyroid hormone medication is given to ensure the patient’s hormone production. Medications necessary for the thyroid, some or all of which are taken, should be used under the supervision of a doctor.