Download Thyroidectomy consent

Dr John C. Strachan
M.B.,ChB (Cape Town) M.MED (UOVS),FCS(SA)
General and Laparoscopic Surgeon
V.A.T NO: 4550255311
PR NO 4208544
INFORMED CONSENT FOR A THYROIDECTOMY
GENERAL RISKS PERTAINING TO THE OPERATION
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Pain The healthcare team will give you medicine to control the pain.
Infection of the surgical site might occur. Let the health team know if you get a high
temperature, notice pus in your wound, or if your wound becomes red or painful.
Scarring of the skin.
Bleeding during or after the operation. This could cause you to be bruised or
blood to collect in your wound (haematoma).
Blood clot in your leg (DVT) - This can cause pain, swelling or redness in your leg.
Blood clot in your lung (Pulmonary Embolus) if a blood clot moves through your
bloodstream to your lungs. If you become short of breath, feel pain in your chest or
upper back, or if you cough up blood, notify the health team immediately.
SPECIFIC RISKS TO THE OPERATION
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Breathing difficulties –Recurrent laryngeal nerve damage or serious swelling
around your neck.
Change in your voice due to damage or stretching of nerves close to the thyroid
and parathyroid glands. This could cause a hoarse or weak voice.
Drop in Calcium levels in your blood. This may cause muscle cramps and a
tingling sensation around your mouth. Your calcium levels in your blood will be
monitored regularly and Calcium and Vitamin D supplements given if necessary.
Drop in Thyroid hormone levels in your blood. You may need replacement
treatment with Thyroxine tablets and your blood levels will be monitored for life.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND CONSENT FOR OPERATION
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I acknowledge that I have read and understand the risks for a Thyroidectomy.
I understand:My medical condition, the proposed procedure to be undertaken & alternative
treatments that may exist pertaining to my condition.
I understand I have the right to change my mind at any time following a discussion
with Dr Strachan and his staff.
I consent to the operation being performed.
Name of patient:……………………………………………………………….
Signature
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Date
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