Lobectomy, a surgical procedure involving the removal of one of the thyroid lobes, has emerged as a viable treatment option for small-scale thyroid cancer, particularly in cases of well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma. The effectiveness of lobectomy in managing this type of cancer has been a subject of considerable medical discussion and study. Get to know more about this from the best thyroid cancer surgeon in Kolkata.
How is lobectomy effective in treating small-scale thyroid cancer
Small-scale thyroid cancers, particularly those less than or equal to 1-2 centimetres in size and confined to one lobe of the thyroid gland, are often categorized as low-risk tumours. In these cases, performing a lobectomy is a viable option instead of a total thyroidectomy- where the entire thyroid gland is removed.
Research studies and clinical trials have depicted promising outcomes supporting the efficacy of lobectomy for small-scale thyroid cancers. The rationale behind this thyroid cancer surgery lies in the premise that these low-risk tumours are less likely to metastasize or recur. As such, removing only the affected lobe through lobectomy can effectively eliminate the cancer while preserving a part of the thyroid gland and minimizing the risk of postoperative complications associated with total thyroidectomy, such as hypoparathyroidism or damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
As per studies, performing a lobectomy for thyroid cancer treatment instead of a total thyroidectomy may offer comparable outcomes in terms of long-term survival rates and disease recurrence. Patients undergoing lobectomy may experience reduced rates of postoperative complications, improved preservation of thyroid function, and a lower likelihood of requiring lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
However, it’s crucial to note that the decision to opt for lobectomy versus total thyroidectomy must be individualized and consider various factors, including tumour size, location, pathology, patient age, and preferences. Some medical guidelines advocate for lobectomy as a feasible initial treatment for low-risk thyroid cancers, especially in patients without significant risk factors or aggressive tumour features.
This surgical approach offers a balance between oncological efficacy and preservation of thyroid function, demonstrating promising outcomes in terms of cancer control while potentially reducing the risks of postoperative complications. However, treatment decisions must be made in consultation with a thyroid cancer surgeon based on tumour characteristics to ensure the most suitable and personalized approach to cancer management.
