The main effect of removing half of the thyroid gland is that it affects the function of the thyroid gland, potentially causing hypothyroidism.
Unilateral removal of the thyroid gland will lead to the thyroid function being affected, resulting in the patient having only 50% of the thyroid function to use, potentially inducing hypothyroidism. The resulting clinical symptoms include chills, weakness, swelling and pallor, as well as hoarseness, apathy, weight gain and unresponsiveness, which need to be treated with supplemental levothyroxine sodium tablets.
If the thyroid gland is combined with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, once the general thyroid gland is removed, it may lead to hypothyroidism; if the thyroid gland is not combined with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the other side of the thyroid gland is still functional after the operation, and it can normally secrete some hormones.
In addition, thyroid surgery may also affect the function of the parathyroid glands. If the patient develops low calcium and convulsions, it may be necessary to take vitamin D and Calcium D supplements, and to check the blood calcium regularly.
After half of the thyroid gland has been removed, thyroid function and other related tests need to be regularly reviewed and evaluated. Patients are advised to go to the hospital for regular follow-ups and need to be instructed by a specialist.