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Endocrine surgery procedures and tips

Endocrine surgery involves operations on the glands of the endocrine system, which produce hormones that regulate various functions in the body. Some endocrine conditions that may require surgery include:

  • Adrenal tumors (benign or malignant)
  • Adrenocortical carcinoma
  • Benign thyroid nodules
  • Conn’s syndrome (primary aldosteronism)
  • Cushing’s syndrome
  • Gastrinomas
  • Hyperthyroidism (e.g., Graves’ disease)
  • Insulinomas
  • Large goiters
  • MEN syndromes (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia)
  • Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
  • Parathyroid adenomas
  • Parathyroid hyperplasia
  • Pheochromocytoma
  • Pituitary adenomas
  • Primary hyperparathyroidism
  • Thyroid cancer

Come see an endocrine surgeon today.

With locations across California, Dignity Health Medical Group is just right around the corner. Schedule an appointment with an endocrine surgeon.

Types of Endocrine Surgeries

Thyroid Surgery

Thyroidectomy: Removal of all (total) or part (partial or hemi) of the thyroid gland. Reasons: Thyroid cancer, large goiters, hyperthyroidism, or suspicious nodules.

Parathyroid Surgery

Parathyroidectomy: Removal of one or more parathyroid glands. Reasons: Primary hyperparathyroidism, parathyroid tumors, or excessive calcium levels in the blood.

Adrenal Surgery

Adrenalectomy: Removal of one or both adrenal glands. Reasons: Adrenal tumors (benign or cancerous), overproduction of hormones (like in Cushing's syndrome, pheochromocytoma, or Conn’s syndrome).

Pituitary Surgery

Transsphenoidal Surgery: Removal of pituitary tumors through the nose and sphenoid sinus. Reasons: Pituitary adenomas, hormone-secreting tumors (like prolactinomas or ACTH-producing tumors).

What you need to know about hyperparathyroidism

There’s nobody quite like you. That’s why your hyperparathyroidism care plan should be completely built around you. Our patient-centric approach will tailor treatment to your needs.

 

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How to prepare for endocrine surgery

  • Understand the Procedure: Ask your surgeon for a clear explanation of what the surgery involves.
  • Review Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you're taking.
  • Get Preoperative Testing: Common tests may include blood work, imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI), and ECG.
  • Follow Fasting Instructions: You will likely need to stop eating and drinking 8–12 hours before surgery, especially if general anesthesia is used.
  • Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol
  • Arrange Transportation and Aftercare: Have someone accompany you and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours after surgery.
  • Prepare Your Home: Set up a comfortable recovery area with easy access to essentials like water, snacks, and medications. Stock up on soft foods if having throat-related surgery (thyroid or parathyroid).
  • Ask About Hormone Management: Your doctor may prescribe hormone replacements or monitor your levels closely after surgery.
  • Wear Comfortable Clothing: On the day of surgery, wear loose, button-down or zip-up clothes for comfort and easy dressing post-op.
  • Stay Calm and Ask Questions: Bring a list of questions to your pre-op appointment.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive endocrine surgery?

  • Smaller Incisions: Reduces visible scarring, especially for neck surgeries like thyroidectomy or parathyroidectomy.
  • Less Pain and Discomfort: Smaller wounds typically mean less post-operative pain.
  • Faster Recovery Time: Patients often return to daily activities much sooner — sometimes within a few days.
  • Lower Risk of Complications: Lower chance of wound infections, blood loss, and other surgical risks.
  • Improved Cosmetic Results: Many techniques are designed to hide incisions in natural skin folds or under the chin.
  • High Precision with Technology: Techniques like robotic or endoscopic surgery allow surgeons to work with high accuracy and better visibility.

Endocrine surgery locations

Frequently asked endocrine surgery questions

Recovery depends on the type of surgery and your overall health. Most patients return to light activities within a few days and normal routines in 1–2 weeks. Minimally invasive surgeries offer faster recovery.

Minimally invasive techniques and careful surgical methods help reduce scarring. For neck surgeries, incisions are placed in natural creases to make them less noticeable. Scars typically fade over time.

Look for a board-certified surgeon with specialized training and experience in endocrine procedures. Ask about their success rates, complication rates, and whether they use minimally invasive or robotic techniques.

Come see us today.

With clinics throughout California, a Dignity Health Medical Group endocrine surgeon is nearby and ready to assist you with your wellness journey.

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