Hi,
I had a total thyroidectomy in July after a nodule was found in my neck. I too had many tests, a biopsy, nuclear scan, ultrasound. I was told it was suspicious. I was ultimately given the choice of partial or total thyroid removal. If I received the partial and the lab work came back malignant they would need to go back in and remove the rest of my thyroid. I decided to get the total removal. I'm very glad that I did. My tissue was sent to the Mayo Clinic after surgery and came back one week later as Hurthle Cell Carcinoma. The process of radiation treatment began. It is my understanding that it is very difficult to determine the type of malignancy regarding the thyroid without the actual tissue sample. Recovery after surgery was not difficult. The trouble I am having is with the medication dosages (Calcitrol, Synthroid, and Calcium). I wish you luck on your surgery and recovery.
Hi,
I would copies of all labs and reports. You have a right to them. The medical jargon is quite hard to get through however. But having them you can feel a bit more empowered, especially if the doctor is not very thorough in explaining everything. Write down all of your questions and ask to speak with your doctor, noting your concerns. I was apprehensive about calling my endocrinologist but each time she did have time to answer a question or two. I was diagnosed papillary carcinoma T2 after a goiter removed (TT 6/24/09). Not sure if they can definitely say what kind of cancer with fna. Mine was done after pathology done post surgery.
Take care.