1. Do you perform minimally invasive surgery ?

All of our surgeons perform parathyroid surgery using intraoperative parathyroid hormone (PTH) testing. This permits a focused, minimally invasive operative approach for the majority of patients with parathyroid disease.

All thyroid surgery is performed through small incisions in the neck. Video-assisted parathyroid and thyroid surgery can also be performed on carefully selected patients.
Almost all adrenal surgery is performed using minimally invasive, advanced videoscopic techniques.

2. Do you use recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring ?

Dr. Heller, Dr. Patel, Dr. Ogilvie and Dr. Hiotis use recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring for all thyroid operations.

3. How long do I have to stay in the hospital after surgery ?

This depends on the operation you have. Most patients are discharged home on the same day after parathyroid surgery when only one parathyroid gland is removed. Most patients go home the following morning after thyroid surgery.

4. What medication will I need to take after my thyroid is removed and does it have any side effects ?

If your thyroid is removed, you will need to take thyroid hormone, levothyroxine (Synthroid TM or Levoxyl TM). Thyroid hormone should be taken every day in the morning on an empty stomach. It has minimal to no side effects. Your physician will check your blood levels approximately 6 weeks after surgery and will adjust your dose if necessary.

5. When can I eat after surgery ?

All patients can eat as soon as they leave the recovery room. A sore throat is normal for 1-2 days after neck surgery but you can eat whatever foods you like.

6. When can my family/friends see me after surgery ?

Usually you can see 1-2 family/friends in the recovery room.

7. What should I bring with me on the day of surgery ?

Your insurance card and any required co-payments. Some people like to bring a change of clothes if they stay overnight. Basic toiletries are provided by the hospital. Do not bring any valuables, or leave them with your family/friends.

8. Can a family member/friend stay with me overnight ?

Most patient rooms are double rooms, making it difficult for family to stay overnight without disturbing other patients.