Alternative to Hemithyroidectomy?

Hi,

I was lucky (or unlucky) to have my diagnosis following FNA, but I'm aware this isn't always the case. The full results only came after surgery. I was diagnosed in Jan 24, however, because I was having chemo/radiotherapy for breast cancer, I didn't have my surgery until last month. I was scheduled within 4-5 weeks once I was reassessed post chemo. I need to have a completion surgery based on the results of the surgery and I'm ha ing that next week - 5 weeks post hemithyroidectomy.

HTH

Hi KaspianSce, sorry you are going through this and are dealing with a brain tumour aswell! From what you've said your results were obviously inconclusive. If they were 100% sure it was benign then there does seem to be some alternatives to surgery but if your consultant is still suspicious of the possibility of Follicular cancer (as you said) then I guess they have limited choice. I would go back to the consultant and ask if there are any other options. They know your case the best. No two situations are the same. I suppose by opting for hemi surgery now, they're trying to reduce the risk of possibly ending up with more invasive surgery later and possible loss of the entire thyroid.

I do empathise with your concerns about your existing fatigue though. I'm dealing with this too and it can be debilitating, so exploring your options now in this early stage is a very good idea. That said, not everybody does poorly after their surgery. Alot of people are fine taking synthetic thyroxine if the remaining half thyroid doesn't step up. Bear in mind you mostly tend to hear from those that are feeling unwell and trying to get help/advice, the ones that do well don't tend to post.

Anyway hope this has been a bit of help, I know there have been quite a few members on here that have had a diagnostic hemi, so hopefully they will pop on and advise soon. Take care.

Hi LuckyD,

Thanks for your reply, I feel slightly in limbo as the results have come back as possibly cancer but also could be benign. I think I will feel a bit better when I hear back from my endocrinologist. Sounds like you are going through a lot, hope your surgery goes well.

Hi k9crazy,

Thanks for your reply, yes my results were inconclusive and my endocrinologist sounds like they are leaning towards surgery as I have had leukaemia in the past so have an increased risk of thyroid cancer. Hopefully I can speak to my specialist soon and ask a few questions and that should help.

Sorry to hear that you also have fatigue, thanks for sharing the information about replacement thyroxin as most things I've read about it are quite negative. I think everyone reacts differently so there is a chance I might not have too many issues. 

Hi KaspianSce

I had a a diagnostic hemi in August following a FNA biopsy. Because it was inconclusive I was offered the diagnostic hemi-thyroidectom as I wanted my lump removed so I wouldn’t have to worry about it. My personal experience of the op was that I recovered from it very quickly, and the other half of my thyroid seems to be coping pretty well by itself without any help, so I hope this information helps you. 

Hi Skies,

Thanks for your reply, really glad to hear that you are doing well after surgery and managing with your thyroid. I am waiting to hear from a surgeon who will make the final decision, I just hope the appointment comes through soon!