Introduction
Thyroid hormones are responsible for many
important metabolic functions in human
physiology. They increase the basal metabolic
rate, affect protein synthesis, help to regulate long
bone growth and promote neuronal maturation
(Table 1). Patients with altered thyroid
functioning may require surgical intervention.
Thyroidectomy or those procedures involving the
removal of a part of the thyroid gland, although
relatively straightforward, may be associated
with serious complications. This article reviews
the anatomy and physiology of the thyroid gland,
as well as describing the surgical procedures and
common complications.
Anatomy and physiology