Various methods are available for the treatment of thyroid cancer. They depend on the type of tumor as well as its size and spread. Overall, it is becoming apparent that thyroid cancer treatment is planned and carried out on an individual basis. If the thyroid tumor is smaller than one centimeter (microcarcinoma), in some cases we decide not to treat the tumor for the time being, but to monitor it closely, for example with ultrasound.
If the thyroid gland is removed, calcium regulation may be impaired. A new high-tech camera ensures that the relevant parathyroid glands are spared during the operation.
In the vast majority of cases, surgery is the first option to remove the cancer and any affected lymph nodes safely and as completely as possible. If the thyroid tumor is very small, it is often sufficient to remove only the affected part of the thyroid gland. In other cases, the entire organ is removed. Those affected must then replace the missing thyroid hormones with tablets for the rest of their lives.
Radioiodine therapy, a special treatment of the thyroid gland, is used as a supplement to surgery. It is suitable for the treatment of differentiated thyroid cancer, i.e. papillary and follicular thyroid tumors. They are given capsules containing radioactive iodine, which dissolve in the stomach and accumulate in remaining cancer tissue, possibly also in metastases. The radioactive iodine destroys these cells. The treatment takes place as an inpatient, lasts about two days and can be repeated several times if necessary.
This treatment is not suitable for the treatment of other forms of thyroid cancer. Radiation therapy is recommended after surgery for undifferentiated, anaplastic thyroid carcinomas and medullary thyroid cancer. The neck region is irradiated from the outside.
New active substances such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which block signaling pathways in cancer cells, (still) play a subordinate role in thyroid cancer.
Chief Physician, Department of Visceral and Transplant Surgery
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