Thyroid Tumors

Thyroid Tumors: these tumors include benign and malignant tumors of the thyroid gland. Benign tumors include cysts, multi nodular goiter, adenomas and others. Thyroid cancers include most commonly well differentiated tumors (papillary and follicular). Benign tumors are removed by partial or hemi-thyroidectomy, leaving a remnant of functional thyroid gland. Total and subtotal thyroidectomies are usually performed for cancers in addition to post-operative treatment with radioactive iodine when indicated. Intra operative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring (NIMS) is available to identify more easily this nerve, which affects the voice and airway. Advanced thyroid cancers sometimes require resection of additional structures in the airway and swallowing apparatus (pharynx) with the possible need for reconstruction. The evaluation and management of voice disorders as a result of these surgeries is handled by the otolaryngology and speech therapy teams.