Thyroid and Parathyroid Procedures

Abstract

March 2004

Section 2 Head and Neck

9 Thyroid and Parathyroid Procedures

Gregg H. Jossart, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco

Orlo H. Clark, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Professor and Vice Chair, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine

This chapter reviews operative planning, operative technique, complications, and outcome evaluation for thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy. The steps covered in operative technique for thyroidectomy include (1) incision and mobilization of skin layers, (2) midline dissection and mobilization of strap muscles, (3) division of isthmus, (4) mobilization of thyroid gland and identification of upper parathyroid glands, (5) identification of recurrent laryngeal nerves and lower parathyroid glands, (6) mobilization of pyramidal lobe, (7) thyroid resection, and (8) closure. For parathyroidectomy, the operative techniques are the same as for thyroidectomy for steps 1 through 4; step 5 is parathyroid resection, and step 6 is closure. Troubleshooting issues are discussed throughout. Illustrations depict key steps of thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy. This chapter contains three references and recommended reading resources.

WebMD Professional Publishing, P.O. Box 1819, Danbury CT 06813 (800-545-0554 or 203-790-2087)