Thyroid Nodule Removal in Boulder, CO

A thyroid nodule is a common thyroid gland disease that is frequently non-cancerous. Still, there are instances when removal of the gland is necessary. Alpine Surgical offers thyroid nodule removal in Boulder, CO. Read on to learn more about thyroid nodules and their treatment options.

What Are Thyroid Nodules?

Thyroid nodules are abnormal lumps or growths of cells on the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in your neck, just below the Adam’s apple. It produces the hormones that play a role in specific body functions, such as body temperature, metabolism, heart rate, digestion, and mood.

These abnormal growths can appear as a single nodule (solitary), more than one nodule (multiple), fluid-filled (cystic), or solid. More than 90% of identified thyroid nodules in adults are noncancerous (benign). Still, they can occasionally be a symptom or cause of thyroid illness.

Thyroid nodules can affect anyone, including children and adults. Females are four times more likely to have them than males, and those living in countries without iodine-fortified food are more likely to develop them.

You are also likely to have thyroid nodules if your family has a history of thyroid issues, you are a chain smoker or alcoholic, and you have iron deficiency anemia.

Evaluating and Treating Suspicious Thyroid Nodules

There are two ways to treat thyroid nodules, by Radioactive Iodine Therapy and surgery. The former uses radioactive iodine to treat thyroid nodules. Your thyroid gland absorbs radioactive iodine, which causes the nodules to shrink.

On the other hand, thyroid nodule removal is a surgery to remove the nodules. It is the best treatment for cancerous nodules that produce obstructive symptoms such as breathing or swallowing problems, and cannot be diagnosed unless surgically removed and evaluated.

Thyroid nodule surgery, commonly known as thyroidectomy, involves the removal of all or part of the thyroid gland. The type of surgery is determined by the nodule’s size, location, and nature, as well as the presence of other thyroid conditions.

If the thyroid nodules are not cancerous, you and your surgeon may decide that you do not require treatment in the meantime. However, you will need to have regular check-ups to have the nodules examined for any changes.

Thyroid Nodule Removal at Alpine Surgical

On rare occasions, thyroid nodules grow big enough to cause trouble in swallowing and breathing. They may also contribute to the enlargement of the thyroid gland. In such cases, contact Alpine Surgical for thyroid nodule removal in Boulder, CO.