Endocrine surgery is a sub-specialty of general surgery that focuses predominantly on diseases of the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands. The thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands are identified as endocrine surgeries because they each produce hormones. Surgery for hormonal disorders requires a high degree of expertise. With years of combined experience in the treatment of these disorders, the surgeons at Surgical Associates are well qualified to diagnose and treat this class of diseases.
Adrenal Glands
The two adrenal glands are located in the back, adjacent to the kidneys. They regulate the body’s energy, glucose control, blood pressure control, kidney regulation and many other functions. Diseases of the adrenal gland are fairly rare but can lead to very significant illnesses, including cancer. Tumors, nodules, or over activity of the adrenal glands are diagnosed by blood tests or CT scans. Laparoscopic removal of the adrenal gland can be done through several small incisions. They can also be removed via open operation.
Parathyroid
Parathyroid glands are located in the neck close in proximity to the thyroid gland. The parathyroid glands serve the major role in controlling calcium balance. Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one of the four parathyroid glands due to hyperparathyroidism (excessive production of parathyroid hormone).The surgical procedure is relatively painless and results in a small scar.
Thyroid
The thyroid is a gland located in the neck. The diagnosis of a health disorder caused by an over-abundance of thyroid hormone can usually be easily identified through laboratory tests. A thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one half of a thyroid lobe or the total thyroid gland. An incision is made in the front of the neck. All or part of the thyroid gland, depending on the particular procedure, is removed. In general, patients recover rapidly from uncomplicated thyroid surgery. Most patients are able to resume most normal activities within 1-2 weeks.