Dr.Satish c- Surgical Oncologist in bangalore
Retrosternal Thyroid Surgery
Retrosternal goiter is a rare condition of the thyroid gland, wherein all or a portion of the thyroid gland is positioned abnormally below the breastbone (sternum).
Retrosternal Thyroid Surgery
Overview
If left untreated, it can cause shortness of breath, swallowing difficulties, and mild neck pain. This condition is often treated with retrosternal thyroid surgery, wherein the abnormal mass is removed.
In most cases, retrosternal goiter does not cause any symptoms. It is often diagnosed when a chest x-ray or CT scan is performed for a different health condition. The symptoms discussed earlier are usually caused due to the pressure exerted on the critical structures like the esophagus (swallowing difficulties) and trachea (breathing difficulties).
More about Retrosternal Thyroid Surgery
How is Retrosternal Thyroid Surgery Performed?
The preferred course of treatment for retrosternal goiter is surgery. The goiter should always be surgically removed, and this procedure should be done as quickly as possible. In most cases, patients with retrosternal goiter can be successfully treated surgically by a single neck incision, resulting in fewer complications and a faster recovery. If the mass is deeply located in the chest, the surgeon makes an incision along the middle of the chest bone. The goiter is then completely removed. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this is a safe procedure for the management of retrosternal goiter
It is normal for you to have some pain after the surgery. Your doctor will prescribe appropriate medications to relieve pain and help you function normally. However, if the pain is severe, you should seek immediate medical attention.
On the day of surgery or the day after, you’ll probably be able to stand up and walk. You should fully heal in three to four weeks.
Possible complications of this procedure include bleeding, infection, damage to parathyroid glands, damage to esophagus and trachea, vocal cord injury, etc. For a better understanding of the possible complications and their management, please talk to your doctor.
The success rates of retrosternal thyroid surgery are excellent. However, one must also note that it varies from patient to patient. For more information, one must talk to the doctor.
Dr. Satish C, who has vast experience in performing head and neck surgeries, is the best surgeon for retrosternal thyroid surgery in Bangalore.