Minimally invasive thyroid surgery at UAB
Th new minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy has several advantages over the current standard treatment:
- smaller incision allows the patient to heal faster and to have a smaller scar
- performed as an outpatient surgery reducing hospitalization
- patients can return to their normal lives sooner.
Prior to the minimally invasive approacth, the traditional surgery, usually required a one- or two-night hospital stay.
Is this surgery for you?
Patients with normal to slightly enlarged thyroid glands and small- to medium-sized nodules are candidates for the new minimally invasive surgery. The surgery is also applicable if you have small thyroid malignancies or need evaluation for suspicious nodules.
When is the traditional surgery necessary?
The minimally invasive technique does not replace the traditional surgery. Patients with large goiters, inflammatory conditions and hyperthyroidism may require the traditional surgery.
For more information about thyroid treatments at UAB, or to schedule an appointment, call UAB HealthFinder at (205) 934-9999, or 1-800-UAB-8816.