TOETVA is a modern innovative technology that ensures safety, effectiveness, and excellent results in thyroid surgery. Since its inception in 2016 and application at Johns Hopkins University, USA, the TOETVA method has gained popularity worldwide. Scientific and clinical research, as well as tens of thousands of successful procedures performed in various countries, confirm its effectiveness. Compared to traditional methods, TOETVA has a significant advantage, allowing for the avoidance of incisions and scars on the neck during partial or total removal of the thyroid gland, nodules, or tumours (depending on their size).
Currently, Ichilov Hospital is the only public medical institution in Israel where this surgery is performed.
How TOETVA is Performed
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, making a small incision in the mucosa of the lower lip, the surgeon introduces specialized endoscopic instruments. The operation is monitored by a camera and endoscopic equipment.
TOETVA is safe and is used in some cases for thyroidectomy in children and as an alternative to transcervical access.
The only drawback of TOETVA is the increase in operation time by 1 hour, which may not be suitable for all patients.
Indications for the Procedure
TOETVA is usually applied in the following cases:
- Benign tumours (nodules) of the thyroid gland: allows for the removal of benign nodules or tumours in the thyroid gland, preventing the need for extensive incisions on the neck and minimizing visible traces after surgery.
- Malignant tumours of the thyroid gland: in certain cases, when thyroid cancer is detected at an early stage and has not spread beyond the gland, TOETVA may be used for tumour removal.
- Functional disorders of the thyroid gland: in some cases, when the thyroid gland is not functioning properly and does not respond to medication, TOETVA may be considered as a treatment method.
- Diagnostic purposes: among other things, the method is used for thyroid biopsy if doctors suspect the presence of a tumour or other pathological changes requiring biopsy for further investigation.
- Thyroiditis: in cases where the thyroid gland is inflamed, TOETVA may be used to remove affected tissues and alleviate inflammation symptoms.
- Repeat surgeries: if a patient has already undergone thyroid surgery and requires re-intervention, TOETVA may be a more preferred option, considering the minimal invasiveness of the method and the lack of need for secondary incisions on the neck.
Cost of the Procedure
When compared to traditional (open) surgeries, procedures similar to TOETVA may have a higher cost, but this is fully justified by their numerous advantages. Exact rates will be determined by doctors after conducting examinations and selecting the most appropriate treatment method. As patients from abroad indicate, surgeries in Israel are relatively inexpensive. For example, in the United States and Germany, prices for similar procedures are on average 30% higher.
Advantages of the TOETVA Technology in Israel
Minimal complications: allows for the avoidance of incisions on the neck, reducing the risk of infections and improving aesthetic outcomes.
- Rapid recovery: due to minimal impact on tissues and less trauma, patients recover faster after surgery and experience less discomfort.
- High precision and safety: the procedure is controlled by endoscopic equipment, providing surgeons with high precision in removing nodules and tumours from the thyroid gland.
- General anesthesia: patients undergo the procedure under general anesthesia, ensuring comfort and painlessness during the operation.
- Individual approach: the method can be adapted to the specific needs of the patient, allowing procedures to be conducted according to the characteristics of each case.
- Exclusion of scars: internal access through the mucosa of the lower lip allows for the avoidance of visible scars on the neck, enhancing patients' confidence after surgery.
If you have indications for TOETVA, contact Ichilov Clinic to receive highly qualified and innovative medical care based on advanced treatment methods and a caring approach to each patient.