free T4 levels were higher and free T3 levels were lower in individuals who had a total thyroidectomy compared to controls matched by TSH level. In the patients who had a partial thyroidectomy and were on levothyroxine, thyroid hormone levels were not significantly different from controls. The patients who had partial thyroidectomy and were note on levothyroxine had significantly lower free T4 measurements but not significantly different free T3 measurements compared to controls.
WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS STUDY?
This study suggests that patients with a thyroid remnant after a partial thyroidectomy have higher T3 levels than patients who have undergone a total thyroidectomy. The authors of this study conclude that remaining thyroid remnant after a partial thyroidectomy continues to contribute to the maintenance of serum free T3 levels even if the patient is on levothyroxine. The clinical significance of these results is not known. More studies, including examining the quality of life of patients after undergoing thyroid surgery, needs to be done.
—Anna Sawka, MD
ATA THYROID BROCHURE LINKS
Thyroid Hormone Treatment: http://www.thyroid.org/thyroid-hormone-treatment/
Thyroid Surgery: http://www.thyroid.org/thyroid-surgery/
Thyroid cancer: http://www.thyroid.org/cancer-of-the-thyroid/