Thyroid Cancer - Mayo Clinic

Our radiologists have exceptional track records in evaluating our high-resolution ultrasounds and characterizing whether a nodule is suspicious for cancer or not. Our approach includes a thorough evaluation of the lymph nodes in the neck, an important element in any subsequent planning. If a fine needle biopsy is necessary to characterize a nodule, our pathologists provide precise diagnoses, quickly.

Our pathology team can reach an accurate diagnosis in nearly all fine needle biopsies, with diagnostic rates far better than the national average.

Your fine needle biopsy results are often available within hours, so those with cancerous nodules can promptly begin surgical planning.

In rare cases when a fine needle biopsy is inconclusive and diagnostic surgery is needed, we can provide a precise diagnosis and the right treatment during a single surgery, eliminating the need for additional procedures. Mayo Clinic is one of only a few centers able to accurately diagnose and provide treatment during a single procedure.

Getting a second opinion can give you peace of mind and confidence in your treatment plan. If you have been diagnosed at another center, our expert thyroid cancer team can clarify or confirm your diagnosis and treatment plan. We even have a streamlined appointment schedule to get you into treatment faster.

Most people with thyroid cancer have an excellent prognosis, and usually surgery offers the best chance for a cure. Studies show people who receive care from surgeons who perform at least 50 thyroid procedures each year have better outcomes. Surgeons at Mayo Clinic perform hundreds of these procedures every year, so you can feel confident you’re in expert hands.

Our surgeons aim to preserve thyroid function when possible, making your recovery and your long-term health management easier.

Your team works meticulously to preserve delicate nerves and minimize scars, addressing your cosmetic and nerve injury concerns.

With our surgeons’ experience and expertise, you have a reduced risk of complications such as bleeding, infection or parathyroid injury.

Thyroid surgery is delicate, and access to expert surgical care matters. Our surgeons have extensive experience in all aspects of thyroid gland surgery, including minimally invasive incisions, partial and complete removal of the gland as necessary, nerve monitoring and treatment of neck lymph nodes with metastatic disease.

At Mayo Clinic, we also offer non-surgical methods to manage and treat thyroid nodules or metastatic disease. These include radiofrequency ablation, ethanol ablation and active surveillance as indicated. Each person’s situation is unique, so our multidisciplinary team of specialists customizes your care plan for the best possible outcome and to meet your goals.

Mayo Clinic experts are highly experienced in complex scenarios. If your thyroid cancer is metastatic, we are here for you on every step of your journey. We provide the most effective treatment plans and give you options, so you can get the best possible care on your terms.

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other hospital, according to U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, which means we are committed to groundbreaking research, clinical trial access, and compassionate cancer care.

You Deserve an Expert Thyroid Cancer Team, We’re Here to Help

A diagnosis you can trust.

Effective therapies with fewer side effects.

Comprehensive cancer care for advanced diagnoses.

When it's time to find answers, you know where to go.

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Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center is designated by the National Cancer Institute as a comprehensive cancer center.

Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center is nationally accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC).