Thyroid surgery is a common surgical intervention for the treatment of diseases related to the thyroid gland. However, some patients may experience unwanted side effects such as hoarseness after such operations.
What is Thyroid Surgery?
Thyroid surgery is a surgical operation performed to treat diseases such as benign or malignant nodules in the thyroid gland, goiter or thyroid cancer. Surgery may involve removing part or all of the thyroid gland.
Thyroid Surgery Process
Before surgery, patients usually need to undergo detailed examinations such as blood tests, ultrasound and biopsy. The surgeon plans the surgery taking into account the size of the thyroid gland, the number of nodules and their location. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and can take 2 to 3 hours.
Hoarseness after Thyroid Surgery
Hoarseness is a condition that occurs when the vocal cords vibrate differently than normal or when the nerves leading to the vocal cords are damaged. Symptoms such as bifurcation, thinning or thickening of the voice can be seen. Damage to the laryngeal nerves during thyroid surgery is one of the most important causes of postoperative hoarseness. These nerves control the movement of the vocal cords. Trauma during surgery or edema in the tissues can also cause hoarseness. Voice changes can negatively affect a person's social life and self-confidence. This is especially challenging for individuals whose profession depends on the use of the voice.
Voice therapy is an effective method for treating hoarseness. During this therapy process, breathing control, vocal exercises and correct speaking techniques are taught. Anti-inflammatory drugs and nerve regenerating treatments can be used to reduce post-operative edema and restore normal function of the vocal cords. For a quick recovery, it is important to use the medications recommended by the doctor regularly, avoid straining the voice and pay attention to general hygiene rules.
Physiological Causes of Hoarseness
There are multiple causes of hoarseness. The cause of hoarseness can be determined after a doctor's check. The causes of hoarseness can be listed as follows:
- Laryngeal Nerve Damage: This nerve controls the movement of the vocal cords and can be damaged during surgery as it passes just behind the thyroid gland.
- Edema: Swelling may occur due to trauma to the tissues during surgery. This affects the normal vibration and function of the vocal cords.
- Anesthesia Tube Effect: The intubation tube used during thyroid surgery can put pressure on the vocal cords, causing temporary irritation and swelling.
- Direct Damage: Direct contact or damage to the vocal cords during surgery is rare but can cause hoarseness.
- Vascular Blockage or Damage: If the vessels supplying blood to the vocal cords are affected during surgery, the vocal cords cannot receive enough oxygen and nutrients. This may cause temporary hoarseness.
- Postoperative Reflux: Some medications or position used during surgery can cause stomach acid to reach the vocal cords. This can cause irritation of the vocal cords and hoarseness.
- Insufficient Fluid Intake: Not drinking enough water after surgery can cause the vocal cords to dry out.
How Long Does Hoarseness Last?
An experienced surgeon can minimize the risk of nerve damage during surgery. This approach helps patients to have a more comfortable and trouble-free postoperative period. Although hoarseness is common after thyroid surgery, it is often temporary and can be completely resolved by treating the underlying physiologic causes. With careful postoperative care, regular medical check-ups and, if necessary, voice therapy, this process can be overcome more easily.
- Temporary hoarseness: It resolves within the first 2-3 weeks after surgery.
- Permanent Hoarseness: It is rare and usually occurs when the laryngeal nerves are severely damaged.
