Thyroid lesions happen frequently and in some cases can turn into thyroid cancer. Papillary thyroid cancer is the most frequent form followed by papillary thyroid cancer. Both have a usually very good prognoses when treated. Medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancers are more rare and have in overall a more poor prognosis.

Causes

History of thyroid enlargement or infection, exposure to radiation, family history of thyroid diseases, acromegalia.

Symptoms

A palpable mass at the front of the trachea (moving when swallowing), enlarged neck lymph nodes, hoarseness or change of voice and chronic cough or throat pain.

Diagnostics

Blood tests (TSH and free T3/T4), an ultrasound of the neck with possible biopsy, and a thyroid scintigraphy (scan) to identify thyroid growths.

Treatment

Benign or small papillary thyroid tumors can be treated by hemithyroidectomy only. In larger papillary thyroid or other types of thyroid cancers a total thyroidectomy can be needed, which can be in combination with a regional lymph. Following the surgical removal of the thyroid tumor guided radioactive (iodine) tablet treatment is often used to eliminate possible remaining cancer cells. Moreover, external radiotherapy and chemotherapy can in some case be indicated according to the tumor-board decision.

Risks of the surgery

Hematoma/bleeding (1%), seroma (2%), low parathyroid hormone levels/ low calcium 15%, temporary or permanent hoarse or weak voice due to damage to the vocal cord nerves (7%) , wound infection (2%)

Why chose Professor Guido Mannaerts MD PhD

Is a Netherlands board certified oncological surgeon with who is dedicated to minimal scar incision surgical approaches.
As being an Adjunct Professor at the UAE University and a broad research background Professor Guido is aiming for state of the art surgical care using the latest techniques.
His pleasant, honest, patient-centred care and being committed to achieve the best results for you makes you feel being treated like a family expert