The thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands are examples of organs that comprise the endocrine system. This complex network of organs and tissues is responsible for regulating the growth and development of your metabolism, mood, and sexual function.

When conditions affecting the endocrine system become problematic, surgical intervention may be required to help correct hormone imbalance and regulate essential body functions. At EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region, our highly skilled surgeons perform endocrine surgeries utilizing the latest approaches and surgical techniques.

Known for their sophisticated multidisciplinary treatment approaches, EmergeOrtho physicians remain committed to helping patients Emerge Stronger. Better. Healthier.

Three Focus Areas of Endocrine Surgeries

While multiple organs make up the endocrine system, EmergeOrtho—Triangle physicians focus on three primary types of endocrine operations which include: adrenal gland surgery, thyroid gland surgery, and parathyroid surgery.

Adrenal Gland Surgery

The adrenal glands are located on top of each kidney. They produce hormones that regulate essential body functions. Although the risk of disease of the adrenal glands is relatively low, if cancer or other abnormalities develop in an adrenal gland, it may need to be removed. If one adrenal gland is removed, the remaining healthy gland will usually adjust and take up the functions needed to keep the body going.

Because the adrenal glands are located close to the kidney, pancreas, spleen, and other structures, it’s important to understand that clinical outcomes are heavily dependent upon the ability and experience of the surgeon. The EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region surgical team has unparalleled experience in endocrine surgeries, including minimally-invasive procedures.

Most often, adrenal surgery is performed laparoscopically through three to four small “keyhole” incisions. This method decreases postoperative pain and enables patients to recover faster.

Thyroid Gland Surgery

A female orthopedic doctor performs a scan of a blonde female patient’s neck to check for thyroid issues.This butterfly-shaped gland in the neck regulates metabolism and helps with growth and development. Some thyroid conditions can be treated conservatively, often with medication. Other thyroid conditions and disorders, however, may require surgery, which includes:

  • Enlarged Thyroid Gland
    Also referred to as a goiter, an enlarged thyroid gland may compress the trachea or esophagus, making it more difficult to breathe and swallow normally.
  • Nodules
    If nodules develop in the thyroid, it will be necessary to determine if thyroid cancer is present (or likely to develop). This evaluation usually includes a fine needle aspiration biopsy of one or more of the nodules. This is an outpatient procedure, and it can often be accomplished in the office.

If surgery is needed, either the entire thyroid gland or only a part of it may be removed, as determined by your surgeon. For a total thyroidectomy, the surgeon removes the whole gland, and often some of the surrounding lymph nodes. This is usually done for larger thyroid cancers. In a thyroid lobectomy, just one lobe (side of the gland) that contains the problem is removed.

Parathyroid Gland Surgery

There are four tiny parathyroid glands in the neck. These glands control the amount of calcium in the blood. If a tumor or other abnormality develops in a parathyroid gland, it causes too much parathyroid hormone to be produced, leading to hyperparathyroidism. This condition can contribute to bone pain, kidney stones, and other problems. Hyperparathyroidism may need to be treated with surgery.

For this procedure, an incision is made in the neck and the diseased glands are removed. A blood test may be done during the surgery to ensure the success of the operation.

After surgery, patients can often go home the next day, as long as their blood tests are stable. Most patients begin regular activities within a few days. Routine blood tests will also be performed to make sure the calcium levels have normalized.

Entrust Surgical Treatment of Endocrine Conditions to the Experts

EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region is known for clinical precision and quality care, making it the preferred choice for surgical treatment of endocrine diseases and conditions. We are dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centered care.

To learn more about our minimally invasive surgical solutions and treatment options for endocrine disorders, call us any time at 919-220-5255. Or, feel free to Request a consultation for a non-urgent care visit.

Medical Advice Disclaimer

This website does not provide medical advice. The information on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For questions regarding a medical condition or treatment, seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare providers. Never disregard professional medical advice because of something you read on this website. If you need medical advice or treatment, click here to schedule an appointment.