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Thyroid Problems (cont.)

Surgery

Surgery for hyperthyroidism may involve removal of much of the thyroid tissue, leaving some intact to continue to produce thyroid hormone. Risks of this procedure include damage to the nerves that control the vocal cords, damage to the parathyroid glands, which lie just behind the thyroid gland, and bleeding. Hypothyroidism may also occur, but occurs less frequently than with radioactive iodine treatment. Persistent hyperthyroidism may also occur. If so, the entire thyroid gland is removed. In general, in the hands of an experienced surgeon, this is considered an effective and relatively safe procedure.



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