Intermediate
Technical
IVT
thyroid lobectomy
Surgical removal of one lobe of the thyroid gland, preserving the other lobe and isthmus.
Full Definition
Thyroid lobectomy involves the complete removal of one thyroid lobe while preserving the contralateral lobe and connecting isthmus. This procedure is typically performed for benign nodules, follicular neoplasms with indeterminate cytology, or well-differentiated thyroid cancers confined to one lobe. The procedure aims to maintain thyroid function while addressing the pathologic condition. Post-operative thyroid function monitoring is essential as some patients may develop hypothyroidism requiring hormone replacement therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from hemithyroidectomy, which includes isthmus removal.
In Context
- "The pathology report following thyroid lobectomy revealed a 2.5 cm follicular adenoma with no evidence of capsular invasion." — surgical pathology report
- "Given the indeterminate cytology on fine needle aspiration, the patient underwent thyroid lobectomy for definitive histologic diagnosis." — operative note
Also known as
unilateral thyroidectomy
hemilobectomy
Contrasted with
total thyroidectomy
bilateral lobectomy
Don't confuse with
hemithyroidectomy
isthmusectomy