TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR THYROID NODULES The discovery of a thyroid nodule can cause patients tremendous anxiety. Nodules are extremely common, with millions of new cases being discovered every year. However, with advances in diagnosis and treatment patients can avoid some of the nervousness that often accompanies this diagnosis. Effective treatments are available Collaboration is critical Patients with thyroid nodules are best cared for by a team of physicians who work together to optimize both the medical and surgical aspects of their care. For example, in patients with thyroid cancer, surgery is sometimes followed by additional treatment. After treatment patients need to be observed to make sure the disease does not return. Close collaboration between doctors ensures each patient has the best plan for treatment and observation. If a nodule is large and causing symptoms (such as difficulty swallowing or a choking sensation) or if it is cancerous, treatment is usually recommended. For those with large thyroid nodules, surgery is used to resolve the symptoms. Thyroid cancer is very curable, with surgery acting as the primary treatment. Safe surgery, fast recovery, small incisions After the patient and their doctors determine surgery is the best approach to treatment, patients are offered a range of surgical options. "Thyroid surgery is no longer one-size-fits all. We are now able to customize our approach to best fit the needs and priorities of each individual patient," says Dr. Singer. Safe, effective surgery is the primary goal and in almost all patients this can be achieved with minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Singer emphasizes that while this means small incisions (often an inch or less), the biggest benefit is decreased trauma during the surgery, which leads to less pain and faster recovery times. Shill Levy, MD Endocrinologist Michael Singer, MD, FACS Otolaryngologist Join us for a free seminar to discuss treatment options for thyroid problems on February 18, 2015 at 6:00pm at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital. To RSVP for this event or to make an appointment, contact us at 1-800-HenryFord, by email at thyroidsurgery@hfhs.org , or on the web at www.henryford.com/requestanappointment-thyroidsurgery. HENRY FORD WEST BLOOMFIELD HOSPITAL 1967210 Trade-In Sale One Week Only! Sale ends February 14th Trade in your old out-dated coat for a stylish new fur! 181 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 Phone: (248) 642-1690 CeresnieandOffenfurs.corn Hours: M-F 10-6, SAT 10-5 Parking: Free parking at store front; additional free parking behind the store. Scan this QR code and go directly to our website orurs Jim February 5 • 2015 21