Is there another option?

[Tony204]

I just saw a Dr. today. Scratch that a Surgeon. It was recommended that my entire right side be removed and 1/2 of my left side. An FNA proved that the nodule on my right side is not cancerous. Although very large (approx. 8cm x 5cm) my right thyroid causes me little problems. My left side is swollen w/ a indeterminate cyst. I've been experiencing symptoms of both hyper and hypo thyroidism. My question is this, is surgery my only option or is there some TX out there where I can shrink the swelling, rid the goiter and nodule/cyst. The Dr.'s did say that I don't show signs of having the potential for thyroid cancer. How should I go about obtaining second and third opinions. The best in my area would be U of M ( GO BLUE) or Detroit Medical Center's Karmanos Cancer Clinic. Please help. I am deathly scared of surgery.

[blksapphire]

I have not had the surgery, but if I did I would want it ALL taken out.  Why leave a portion for the surgeon to come back later and possibly take out.

You asked of other options and I had RAI treatment, however I can't tell you if it was a success or not.  I got the treatment in December 07 and i'm still trying to  get my numbers in ther "normal" range.

Ask your surgeon what other options do you have and then make your decision.

Good luck with whatever decision you make.

Take care

Terri

[dscoochie]

I understand that you are afraid of surgery.  I was sooo scared that I literally cried for four days straight before my surgery.  Imagine my surprise to find out it was cancer and I'd have to have the other half removed within a few weeks.

Surgery was honestly not that bad.  It was a pretty easy recovery, both times.  

That is fantastic that your's isnt cancer, however, I suggest that you take it ALL out if you are going to go ahead with the surgery. What is the benefit of leaving 20% behind?  

Good luck with your decision, and hopefully others will chime in regarding possible alternative therapies to shrink your nodule/ goiter.

D