Thyroid Cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many aspects to initiating a treatment plan, from travel to medical records to how your family may be involved. We encourage you to
call our Patient Care Specialists, who can answer all of your questions and help get the process started. Call 877-308-9111.
Having a thyroid nodule does not mean you have thyroid cancer. In fact,
95% of thyroid nodules are benign. Most of the time, these nodules can be
followed on a regular basis, without the need for surgery?
Our endocrinology team will thoroughly evaluate the nodule and determine if it is cancerous. Your physician will take a detailed medical
history and perform a careful physical exam. They may also perform an ultrasound exam in the office or refer you to a radiologist to
perform the ultrasound. Lab work is also done and, if necessary, a tissue sample may be taken.
The treatment for thyroid cancer is to remove all thyroid tissue, a procedure called a total thyroidectomy. Many times lymph nodes surrounding
the thyroid are removed at the same time. We use the most advanced surgical techniques to help preserve the quality of the patient's voice and
decrease bleeding and operative time. After surgery, you may receive radioactive iodine treatment to take care of any small amounts of
remaining thyroid cancer.
Your surgeon will discuss possible options for treatment of your particular condition. Each treatment plan is individualized. The risks,
benefits and alternatives to each option will be fully explained by your surgeon. Please feel free to ask any questions you might have.
It is important to us that you understand your disease and treatment options.
The University of Michigan's Multidisciplinary Endocrine Oncology physicians are leaders in their field dedicated to providing care solely to
patients with endocrine disorders. Care of patients with thyroid cancer is a main focus of the Endocrine Surgery Division, and we are often
referred patients with complex problems requiring care not available elsewhere. New techniques and therapies to care for patients with
thyroid disorders are constantly being evaluated and implemented to provide the most up-to-date care possible.
Our Patient Care Center is here to help you with everything from scheduling and coordinating appointments to planning travel and hotel
accommodations. We are here to make your care as seamless as possible, and give you a single point of contact for any questions or concerns.
We can also help you with any questions you might have about insurance coverage and hospital billing. You can reach our Patient Care Center
at 877-308-9111.
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