Perioperative management of thyroid disease. Prevention of complications related to hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

Patients with underlying thyroid disease who are in need of surgery present a particular challenge to the surgeon responsible for their care and to the medical consultant who must offer clinical guidance. Often, underlying thyroid disease is difficult to detect clinically, because signs and symptoms of disease are varied or subtle. Furthermore, those with known disease who are receiving a seemingly stable medical regimen may still be at risk for associated complications. Only heightened clinical awareness, early and appropriate treatment, and delay of elective surgery results in an improved patient outcome.