On October 17, 2012, I underwent a total thyroidectomy, marking the official end of my thyroid's function. The aftermath of the surgery brought about some noticeable changes. My neck felt notably stiff, and a sore throat was a constant companion. My voice, too, grew quite weak during those initial days. However, I'm relieved to say that these discomforts were temporary and gradually subsided within a couple of days.
The surgery involved the placement of three drainage tubes, which proved to be a less than pleasant experience when they were removed by the doctor on the third day post-surgery. The sensation of having those tubes taken out was far from enjoyable. I continued to experience discomfort in my neck for approximately two weeks following the procedure.
Now, eleven weeks have passed since the surgery, and there are still some lingering effects. The scar on my neck remains red, and I occasionally experience a pin-pricking sensation around the scar area. According to my surgeon, it will take a total of six months for the scar to completely heal.
I am not a doctor, but I worked in thyroid nuclear imaging lab and would like to live a comment on your blog
ReplyDelete1. Do you have any idea how much blood was collected in the bag from the drain tubes?
2. Have you been told to use some sort of cream on your scar to prevent formation of the keloid (I heard about Mederma that one patient used)?
3. Have you been offered Thyrogen injection to shorten RAI preparation period (LID)?
Thanks in advance; I wish I could follow your blog from the beginning!
It sound peculiar, but one of my own ailments had improved after I read your blog
I'm happy to hear my blog has enlighten you. My experience with cancer has taught me to look at life in a different way. Being diagnosed with Thyroid cancer has made me make positive change in my life. to answer your qustion.
ReplyDelete1. Unfortunately the doctor or nurses did not tell me how much was collected, but I had two bags. and they were both half filled.
2. I have been told to use Bio-oil,I am not sure if that is working out for me. I will look into Mederma.
3. I have not been offered Thyrogen. My endocrinology is very hesitant to try new drug. I'm not 100%, but I believe Thyrogen was approved in canada back in June 2012, and is fully available as of Nov 2012. I'll be meeting my endocriinology Jan 9,2013 before my RAI treament on Jan 14, 2013. I'll be asking about Thyrogon. It's a great drug, and I would have not needed to go hypo. I'll write more about goign Hypo and Thyrogon. Thanks once again for reading my blog.