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Introduction

Thyroid embolization is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat conditions of the thyroid gland resulting from the overproduction of thyroid hormones. This treatment is recommended when other treatments such as medications or radioactive iodine therapy fail to work. If you are looking for the best thyroid treatment in Bangalore, you must visit the Gleneagles Hospitals. You can meet the best thyroid specialist in Bangalore at Gleneagles Hospitals. 

What Is Thyroid Embolization?

Thyroid embolization is a procedure in which one or more arteries supplying blood to the thyroid gland are blocked or embolized to reduce the blood supply to the gland. It helps in limiting the production of hormones thus reducing the symptoms. It is a minimally invasive technique that helps to manage hyperthyroidism without surgery. It helps to preserve the thyroid function while reducing hormone production. 

What Are The Indications For Thyroid Embolization?

Thyroid embolization is recommended in the following cases:

  • Multinodular Goitre: It is a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes enlarged with multiple nodules and causes pressure symptoms.
  • Benign hypervascular thyroid nodules: It is a condition in which nodules are formed with excessive blood supply and may cause difficulty in swallowing, neck discomfort, or pressure symptoms.
  • Recurrent or inoperable thyroid cancer: Thyroid embolization is also used to control tumor growth and reduce symptoms of the patients.
  • When surgery is not possible: It is the treatment of choice in cases when surgery is not possible due to age, personal reasons, or medical problems.
  • Autonomous Functioning thyroid nodules: When nodules produce excessive thyroid hormones causing hyperthyroidism. 

How Is Thyroid Embolization Done?

Thyroid embolization can be done in an outpatient department. Most patients return home the same, however some may have to stay depending on specific reasons.

  • The doctor will review your medical history and explain you about the procedure, its risks, and benefits.
  • The doctor will recommend some imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, CT Scan, or Ultrasound before the procedure to check the state of the gland.
  • The doctor will also order a thyroid function test to assess the thyroid functioning before the procedure. Gleneagles Hospital provides a thyroid test in Bangalore.
  • You will be asked to avoid eating or drinking for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
  • You also have to stop taking blood thinners to avoid the risk of bleeding.
  • You have to avoid smoking and alcohol drinking a few days before the procedure. 
     

During the procedure

You will be taken to the surgery room and will be asked to lie down.

  • The doctor will give you general anesthesia to make you sleep. It helps in reducing pain and discomfort during the surgery.
  • The surgeon will make a small incision in the wrist or groin area.
  • The surgeon will use a fluoroscope or ultrasound to insert a catheter through the incision to access the thyroid arteries supplying the thyroid gland.
  • The doctor will insert tiny particles of embolic agents through the catheter into the thyroid arteries to block the blood vessels that supply the thyroid gland.
  • The radiologist will ensure that the thyroid gland’s blood supply has been cut off properly.
  • The doctor will withdraw the catheter after the procedure and the incision site will be closed using sutures and covered with a surgical bandage. 
     

After the procedure

After surgery, you have to visit the hospital for follow-up and post-care routine to ensure quick recovery. After the procedure:

  • You will be kept in the recovery room for observation for a few hours to monitor recovery and complications.
  • The doctor will give you instructions to follow after the procedure. You have to avoid any strenuous exercise for a few days.
  • You will be prescribed medications to manage pain for a few days.
  • You must visit the hospital for follow-up appointments so that the doctor can evaluate your recovery.
  • Based on your recovery rate the doctor will plan further course of action if required.

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Benefits Of Thyroid Embolization

There are many benefits of thyroid embolization. The most important benefits include the following:

  • Minimally invasive technique: Thyroid embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that does not cause much pain and discomfort to the patient and helps in quick recovery.
  • Improve thyroid function: The procedure helps to preserve thyroid function. It helps maintain some thyroid hormone production which helps to maintain overall health.
  • No scars: It is a minimally invasive surgery, therefore no or fewer scars are formed after the surgery.
  • Reduced symptoms: Thyroid embolization helps to treat hyperthyroidism. This helps in managing the symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, tremors, and rapid heartbeat.
  • Quick recovery: The procedure is done in the outpatient department and the patient can return home the same day. You can go back to work and resume normal activities after a few days or a week.

Risks of thyroid embolization

Every surgical procedure has some risks though it is a safe procedure. Some potential risks of thyroid embolization include the following:

  • Infection: There is a risk of infection at the site of incision. Proper care after surgery can help to prevent infection.
  • Pain and discomfort: You may experience pain and discomfort at the site of the incision. The pain may be mild and can be managed with pain medications.
  • Ineffectiveness: In some cases, thyroid embolization may not control hyperthyroidism symptoms as the success may vary from person to person.
  • Thyroid function change: The main aim of thyroid embolization is to reduce thyroid hormone secretion but there is a risk of affecting the thyroid function more than intended and it can lead to hypothyroidism.
  • Allergic reaction: Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the contrast dye or medications used during the surgery. The symptoms may be mild and can be managed immediately.

Why Choose Gleneagles Hospital For Thyroid Embolization?

Gleneagles Hospital is the best choice for thyroid artery embolization in Bangalore. If you look for thyroid embolization procedure Bangalore, you will find the Gleneagles Hospital on the top. Some reasons why this hospital is the best are:
 

  • Expertise in the treatment of thyroid disorders: Gleneagles Hospital has a team of doctors who specialize in treating thyroid disorders. You can find the best thyroid specialist in Bangalore at Gleneagles Hospital. The doctors have years of experience and offer personalized treatment plans tailored to the needs of the patients.
  • Advanced medical facilities: The hospital is equipped with advanced medical facilities such as robotic-assisted surgical procedures. This helps doctors to perform surgeries with precision and improves the success rate.
  • Comprehensive patient care: The hospital employs a holistic approach to provide treatment and care to the patients. The hospital offers effective consultation, advanced diagnostic techniques, and regular follow-ups to ensure smooth treatment and recovery of the patients.
  • State-of-the-art infrastructure: The hospital has well-equipped surgery and recovery rooms. The doctors use advanced tools and techniques to perform the procedure. Recovery rooms are fitted with the necessary equipment to manage complications. The hospital staff ensures to provide a comfortable and peaceful environment to the patients for quick recovery.
  • Follow-up care: The hospital provides follow-up care to the patients after surgery to recover easily and quickly. Rehabilitation programs are offered for patients depending on their individual needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the thyroid embolization procedure aims to shrink the thyroid gland and reduce its activity to get rid of the symptoms. The procedure has helped patients in managing thyroid disorders effectively when conventional treatments fail to give results. It is a safe and minimally invasive procedure performed in an outpatient department by the expert surgeons at Gleneagles Hospitals. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to take thyroid medications after thyroid embolization procedure Bangalore?

Most patients do not have to take medications after thyroid embolization as thyroid function is preserved. However, it is recommended to get regular thyroid function tests done to monitor hormone levels. You may get the tests done after every three months.
 

How effective is thyroid embolization in treating thyroid disorders?

The effectiveness and success of thyroid embolization depend on different factors such as age, underlying problem of the thyroid gland, and the patient's lifestyle. Generally, it helps in reducing symptoms and can be an effective treatment option for hyperthyroidism for patients who fail to get relief from medications and other conservative treatments.
 

How painful is the thyroid embolization procedure Bangalore?

The procedure is not painful because the doctor will give general anaesthesia before the procedure to manage pain and discomfort. You may experience mild pain and discomfort in the neck region for a few days after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medications. 
 

How soon can I recover after the thyroid embolization procedure?

Recovery time after thyroid embolization varies from person to person. But, most patients can resume daily activities within a few days to a week after the procedure. The doctor may give you specific instructions to follow up for a quick recovery.
 

How long does the procedure take?

Thyroid Artery Embolization in Bangalore is done in an outpatient department. Generally, it takes one to two hours to complete the procedure. You may have to stay in the hospital for monitoring for a few hours after the procedure. Most patients return home the same day.
 

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