Intermediate
Technical
IVT
completion thyroidectomy
Surgical removal of remaining thyroid tissue following previous partial thyroidectomy.
Full Definition
A secondary surgical procedure to remove residual thyroid tissue after an initial partial thyroidectomy, typically performed when final pathology reveals malignancy requiring total thyroidectomy. Completion thyroidectomy presents increased technical challenges due to scar tissue formation and altered anatomy from the previous surgery. The procedure carries higher risks for recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and hypoparathyroidism compared to primary total thyroidectomy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'revision surgery' which implies correction of previous complications.
In Context
- "Completion thyroidectomy was recommended after papillary carcinoma was identified." — Endocrine surgery consultation
- "The completion thyroidectomy proceeded without injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve." — Operative summary
Also known as
secondary thyroidectomy
completion surgery
Contrasted with
primary thyroidectomy
initial resection
Don't confuse with
revision surgery
reoperation