On July 11, hospital representatives reported that specialists at the Oncology Center performed the complex thyroidectomy on the elderly patient, who resides in Y Yen, Ninh Binh.

According to family members, the patient had a history of hypertension and had lived with a neck tumor for more than 20 years. The mass gradually enlarged, causing difficulty breathing, swallowing, and severely affecting her daily life.

Upon admission, doctors conducted a thorough examination and CT scan, revealing a 12x8x8 cm tumor in the right thyroid lobe. The mass was compressing her trachea and major neck blood vessels.

A multi-disciplinary consultation led to the decision to remove the entire thyroid gland. During the 90-minute operation, surgeons skillfully dissected the large mass pressing against the trachea and carotid sheath, while successfully preserving critical nerves and blood vessels.

Surgeons noted this was an especially challenging procedure due to the tumor’s size, extensive vascularization, and high risk of bleeding - compounded by the patient’s advanced age and long-term hypertension.

After the surgery, the patient was alert and no longer experienced symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, or hoarseness. The surgical wound healed quickly, and she was discharged just four days after the procedure.

Tran Nghi