When it comes to thyroid surgery, the traditional approach involves a highly invasive procedure that requires general anesthesia and a prolonged recovery period.

However, advancements in medicine and technology have made it possible to perform thyroid surgery using less invasive techniques.

One such technique is called neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy. This procedure is minimally invasive, and it involves the use of a specialized device that stimulates the release of neurotransmitters.

What is Neurotransmitter Assisted Thyroidectomy?

Neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure that uses neurotransmitters to stimulate the nerves surrounding the thyroid gland.

This helps to reduce the amount of medication required for general anesthesia and, as a result, minimizes the amount of time required for the surgery and the recovery period.

The neurotransmitter used in this procedure is called acetylcholine, which is a chemical that is naturally found in the body. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is released by nerve cells and stimulates the muscle cells to contract.

When used during thyroid surgery, it helps to reduce the amount of medication required for anesthesia and makes the procedure less invasive.

How is Neurotransmitter Assisted Thyroidectomy Performed?

Neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy is typically performed under local anesthesia, which means that the patient is awake throughout the procedure.

First, a small incision is made in the neck, and a specialized device called a neuromodulator is inserted. This device will stimulate the release of acetylcholine, which will help to reduce the amount of medication required for the surgery.

Using the neuromodulator, the surgeon is able to precisely locate and avoid the nerves that are responsible for controlling the vocal cords.

This means that the patient does not need to be intubated, and they are able to speak immediately after the surgery.

The thyroid gland is then removed through the small incision in the neck. The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and the patient is able to go home the same day.

What are the Benefits of Neurotransmitter Assisted Thyroidectomy?

Neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy has several benefits over traditional thyroid surgery. The most significant benefits include:.

Minimally invasive: Neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that requires only a small incision in the neck.
Local anesthesia: This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, which means that the patient is awake throughout the procedure. This eliminates the risks associated with general anesthesia.
Faster recovery: Patients who undergo neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy typically experience a faster recovery period and are able to resume normal activities within a few days.
Reduced risk of complications: The use of acetylcholine during the procedure helps to reduce the risk of complications associated with general anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, and respiratory distress.

Are there any Risks Associated with Neurotransmitter Assisted Thyroidectomy?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy. Some of the risks associated with this procedure include:.

Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during and after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
Infection: There is a risk of infection at the site of the incision, which may require additional treatment.
Vocal cord paralysis: There is a risk of vocal cord paralysis, which may affect the patient’s ability to speak.
Thyroid hormone imbalance: There is a risk of developing a thyroid hormone imbalance after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.

Conclusion

Neurotransmitter assisted thyroidectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that offers several benefits over traditional thyroid surgery.

This procedure uses acetylcholine to reduce the amount of medication required for anesthesia and makes the procedure less invasive. Patients who undergo this procedure typically experience a faster recovery period and are able to resume normal activities within a few days.

However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with this procedure that should be carefully considered before undergoing the surgery.