Papillary cancer Thyroid surgery

[Helpmeronda]

Has anyone had more than one total thyroidectomy?  After my first surgery went to get radioactive iodine treatment and was told surgeon left 10% thyroid tissue in and I needed another surgery to have it removed before I could get the treatment.  Second surgery was unsuccessful due to all the scar tissue and swelling. Now, they have a great idea to give me several small doses of radiation, the very thing they talked me out of before the second surgery. Now at a stand still until I can figure out what to next, any suggestions?

[Helpmeronda]

Thank you for your time and help. I sincerely appreciate your reply. Lori

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

It is not common, but we do see this.  Would review the type/size/features of the papillary thyroid cancer with an expert.  Repeat neck ultrasound and labs (including Thyroglobulin) with an expert and determine the best plan

[Helpmeronda]

So, is it common to have 10% thyroid tissue remaining after a total thyroidectomy? They said we needed a second surgery to remove more tissue before radiation, which they did and was unsuccessful (0% removed in 2nd surgery). Now they want to radiate while still having 10% and two nodules in tissue bed. Don't know what to do. I remember all the facts given why to have second surgery and not several radiation treatments. Now want to radiate anyway. Please help or tell me where to find help. Thank you

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

Would get another opinion at an expert center to determine if the papillary thyroid cancer really needs I-131 or not.  Sometimes it is difficult to remove the entire thyroid and if there is concern about cancer being left behind then at least one I-131 treatment may be neeeded.