Thyroid Nodules
How We Can Help You
Thyroid nodules are growths that form within the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in the neck. Thyroid nodules are very common, affecting up to half of all people by age 60, and most are benign (noncancerous).
At Stanford, our doctors offer thorough analysis and diagnosis of thyroid nodules. Our experts can accurately advise you on whether a thyroid nodule needs surgical or other treatment. Many thyroid nodules don’t need treatment.
When thyroid nodules do need treatment, we use specialized surgical techniques that minimize the risk to nerves and other important structures. We also provide the latest nonsurgical care for thyroid conditions.
What We Offer You For Thyroid Nodules
- Internationally recognized expertise in surgical and nonsurgical treatment for all types of endocrine and thyroid conditions.
- Team-based treatment planning in our comprehensive Endocrine Tumor Program, with specialists who collaborate to recommend the best care path for you.
- Personalized diagnostic process, with expertise in the latest research and imaging so that we can offer less-invasive treatment options.
- Treatment options that maximize new research and knowledge, so you receive the most up-to-date care for thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer.
- Active clinical research program dedicated to broadening options for diagnosis and treatment of thyroid conditions.
INTERESTED IN AN ONLINE SECOND OPINION?
The Stanford Medicine Online Second Opinion program offers you easy access to our world-class doctors. It’s all done remotely and you don’t have to visit our hospital or one of our clinics for this service. You don’t even need to leave home!
Visit our online second opinion page to learn more.
Treatment for Thyroid Nodule
Our endocrine tumor doctors provide all the care you need for thyroid nodules and thyroid-related hormone disorders, including multinodular goiter, hyperthyroidism, and Graves’ disease. Our specialists are experts in these conditions.
Thyroid nodules and related disorders are common, but they don’t always need treatment. Often, we recommend monitoring nodules that aren’t causing symptoms. When symptoms do occur, we discuss your options in detail with you so that you can make the best decisions about your treatment.
Nonsurgical treatment
Your care may include:
- Active surveillance: We watch the thyroid nodule for changes that might indicate treatment is necessary, but we do not yet treat it. You may have ultrasound imaging regularly to measure the nodules.
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy: Using a very fine needle, your doctor removes thyroid cells to test for cancer. We use ultrasound imaging to guide the needle. Your doctor may order additional molecular testing to help determine the risk of cancer.
We offer individualized care for your needs at Stanford Cancer Center, an NCI-designated Cancer Center.
Surgery
Thyroid nodules that cause symptoms or have a risk of cancer may need surgical removal. Stanford is a regional referral center for endocrine surgery, meaning that many doctors from throughout California send their patients to us for surgery. Our skilled surgeons perform a high volume of thyroid operations each year, including many highly complex operations and reoperations (surgeries for people who have had thyroid surgery before). Learn more about surgery for thyroid tumors.
Clinical Trials for Thyroid Nodule
Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may be eligible to participate in open clinical trials. Open trials refer to studies that are currently recruiting participants or that may recruit participants in the near future. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but similar studies may open in the future.
What are Thyroid Nodules?
Our Clinics
At Stanford, you have access to expert evaluation of thyroid nodules at one of the nation’s only comprehensive centers for endocrine tumors. We provide second opinions and any treatment you need.
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Phone: 650-498-6000 Getting Here »
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To schedule an appointment, please call: 650-498-6000