After Thyroid Lobectomy: How to Care for Your Child

The thyroid gland has two lobes. Thyroid lobectomy is a surgery to remove one of the thyroid lobes. Kids with hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, or thyroid cancer may need this surgery.

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck. The thyroid and the hormones it makes are important for growth, development, and metabolism.

The surgeon cut the skin and moved aside neck muscles and nerves to reach the thyroid gland. Because the nerves that control the vocal cords are close to the thyroid, a special breathing tube was used during surgery to monitor and protect these nerves. Mild hoarseness is common for a couple of days after surgery.

Skin numbness near the incision is also common. Mild swelling should start to improve about 2 days after the procedure. It may be uncomfortable for your child to swallow, but this will get better with time.

The parathyroids are four tiny glands that control the amount of calcium in the blood. These glands lie close to the thyroid and may be damaged during surgery. Only half the thyroid is removed, so the remaining thyroid lobe and parathyroid glands should be able to maintain normal thyroid hormone and calcium levels. After surgery, health care providers will check thyroid hormone and calcium levels in the blood.

• The incision will have steri-strips, a special tape that helps hold the skin together. The steri-strips will fall off on their own. There is no bandage or other covering over the wound.

• It is OK to shower the day after surgery. The area can get wet — but not soaked — for 1 week. Gently pat the neck with warm, soapy water on a washcloth.

• Your child should take it easy for the first week after surgery. Most children take up to 1 week out of school, but can return sooner if they feel better and can participate.

• No recess, gym, or sports for 2 weeks after surgery.

• Remind your child to avoid straining (like lifting a heavy school bag).

Your child has:

• a rapid increase in neck swelling

• significant bruising or skin color changes around the neck

• discharge from the incision

• a fever above 100.4°F (38°C)

Your child:

• has tingling around the lips or fingers

• has stomach pain or cramps

• feels like the heart is racing, is shaking, or feels anxious

• has a puffy face or swelling of the hands or feet

• is constipated

• feels really cold