Diagnosis, Staging, and Hormone Evaluation
Understanding Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when managed by a specialist surgical team. Our partner hospitals provide a comprehensive diagnostic workup.
Diagnostic Pathway in Istanbul:
- High-Resolution Ultrasound: Precision mapping of thyroid nodules and cervical lymph nodes.
- Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA): Minimally invasive biopsy to determine the nature of nodules (Bethesda classification).
- Thyroid Function Tests: Blood panels to assess TSH, T3, and T4 levels before intervention.
| Diagnostic Tool | Indication | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound | Palpable Lumps | Nodule Assessment |
| FNA Biopsy | Suspicious Nodules | Pathology Confirmation |
| Calcitonin Test | Medullary Suspicion | Specific Staging |
Total Thyroidectomy and Robotic Approaches
Surgical Excellence in Thyroid Cancer
Surgery is the primary treatment for most thyroid cancers. We coordinate access to endocrine surgeons who specialise in preserving critical structures.
Surgical Procedures Available:
- Total Thyroidectomy: Complete removal of the thyroid gland to ensure comprehensive cancer control.
- Thyroid Lobectomy: Removal of only one lobe for selected low-risk, early-stage cancers.
- Central & Lateral Neck Dissection: Removal of affected lymph nodes to prevent regional spread.
- Robotic Thyroidectomy (Scarless Neck): Accessing the thyroid through the axilla (armpit) to avoid a visible neck scar.
| Procedure | Hospital Stay | Hotel Stay | Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Thyroidectomy | 1-2 Nights | 5 Days | 2 Weeks |
| Neck Dissection | 2-3 Nights | 7 Days | 3-4 Weeks |
| Robotic (Transaxillary) | 1-2 Nights | 5 Days | 2 Weeks |
Hormone Management and Long-Term Surveillance
Post-Surgical Care & Radioactive Iodine
Post-operative care for thyroid cancer focuses on restoring hormone balance and, in many cases, providing supplementary therapy.
Recovery Support & Ongoing Care:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy: Precise titration of Levothyroxine to replace thyroid function.
- Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Coordination: Arrangement of ablation therapy to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells.
- Calcium Management: Monitoring and support for parathyroid function following total resection.
- Follow-Up Surveillance: Regular ultrasound and Thyroglobulin (Tg) monitoring to ensure long-term health.
BB Global Health provides all surgical and pathology reports in English, ensuring a smooth transition to your home endocrinologist.