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ADRENALECTOMY
There are two adrenal glands, one sits atop each kidney. The adrenal glands produce important hormones that regulate bodily function. If tumors develop, a surgery may be needed to remove one or both of the adrenal glands (adrenalectomy).
THYROID GLAND
The thyroid and parathyroid glands are part of the endocrine system which creates hormones that help regulate many body functions. The thyroid is located in the front of the neck and can develop cancer as well as cause problems by producing too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism).
An underactive thyroid is commonly treated with medication and would not require surgery unless the thyroid becomes enlarged and causes swallowing or breathing problems. An overactive thyroid may be considered for surgical removal (thyroidectomy) for conditions such Graves’ disease, a toxic nodule, or allergies to thyroid medications. For a diagnosis of thyroid cancer, part or all of the thyroid gland would need to be removed, depending on the size and type of cancer. The surgeon makes a small incision in the low, front part of the neck. It can often be placed in a skin crease to make the scar more difficult to see. Occasionally a drain will be placed in the incision after surgery, but is generally removed the following morning. An overnight stay in the hospital can be expected.
PARATHYROID GLANDS
The parathyroid glands consist of four, small round pieces. They are found at the back of the thyroid gland, two on either side. Parathyroid gland surgery may be needed for non-cancerous tumors called adenomas, cancerous tumors on or near the glands, or an enlargement of one or all four of the parathyroid glands. Enlargement of the glands means too much parathyroid hormone is being produced (hyperparathyroidism) and is often caused by kidney failure and dialysis. Parathyroid surgery generally involves a neck exploration of both sides of the neck by making an incision (cut) in the middle to lower part of the neck. An overnight stay in the hospital is all that is generally required.
VASECTOMY
Vasectomy is a male sterilization surgery and is the most secure form of birth control. A small incision is made on each side of the scrotum so that a small portion of the vas deferens can be removed. The vas deferens is the duct that allows passage of the sperm cells out of the testicles to the urethra. These surgeries are performed in the procedure room of our Butte location. A semen analysis will be ordered for six weeks following the surgery and unprotected sex should be avoided until the test results confirm success of the procedure.
