What is the most common post op complication of thyroidectomy?
Hypocalcemia and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury are the two most common post-thyroidectomy complications. 4. Hypocalcemia is managed by the administration of calcium plus vitamin D.
What is the post operative position of a client who had undergone thyroidectomy?
The patient should be placed in a supine position with the apex of the patient’s head at the top of the operating bed. A shoulder roll or gel pad should be placed at the level of the acromion process of the scapula to help extend the neck.
How long do I need to sleep elevated after thyroidectomy?
Head of Bed: Please elevate the head of your bed 30-45 degrees or sleep in a recliner at 30-45 degrees for the first 3-4 days to decrease swelling. The skin above the incision may look swollen after lying down for a few hours.
What are the most common complications after a thyroidectomy?
Thyroidectomy Complications Hypocalcemia (3-5%): most common cause of airway obstruction after 24 hours Hematoma (1-2%): most common cause of airway obstruction within 24 hours Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (0.77%): usually causes unilateral damage, stridor, hoarseness
What are the post operative instructions for a thyroidectomy?
UMHS Endocrine Surgery Thyroidectomy/ Parathyroidectomy Post-Operative Instructions. – 2 – may also be experienced and can take a few days to go away. These are common symptoms and are best treated with anti-inflammatories, warm compresses, and light massage.
What happens to the airway after a thyroidectomy?
After 24 hours consider laryngeal dysfunction secondary to hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia (3-5%): most common cause of airway obstruction after 24 hours Hematoma (1-2%): most common cause of airway obstruction within 24 hours Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (0.77%): usually causes unilateral damage, stridor, hoarseness Wound infection (0.2-0.5%)
Can a thyroidectomy cause hoarseness six months after surgery?
Less than 1 percent of people having a thyroidectomy will experience damage to either the recurrent laryngeal nerve or the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve. 4 If hoarseness persists, especially if it is still present six months after surgery, it’s likely that the recurrent laryngeal nerve was injured.
