When should I seek medical attention?
Infection
Signs of infection of the incision site are:
- Fever
- Increasing redness or swelling around the incision site
- Purulent drainage (yellow or greenish fluid) from the incision site
If you experience any of these symptoms in the weeks following surgery, call your surgeon's office or visit the closest emergency department.
Neck hematoma
Signs of a neck hematoma are:
- Increasing neck swelling and/or pressure in the neck
- Bluish discoloration around the incision site
- Increased bleeding around the incision
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing
The risk of neck hematoma is highest in the first 24 hours after the surgery (first 6 hours is the highest risk). If you experience these symptoms in the week following surgery, go immediately to the closest emergency department.
Hypocalcemia (low calcium)
Signs of hypocalcaemia are:
- Numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, and around your mouth or face.
- Jerking or involuntary movements of your hand or feet
- Stiffness or your hands, feet and other body parts
If you experience theses symptoms in the weeks following your surgery, call your surgeon's office immediately or go to the closest emergency department.
Vocal cord paralysis
Signs of vocal cord paralysis include:
- Breathy or weak voice
- Aspiration (choking on food when eating or drinking - food going the wrong way)
- It is normal to have a hoarse voice after the surgery due to the breathing tube needed for general anaesthesia. Your voice should gradually return to normal over the first few days.
If you experience persistent breathiness or weakness of your voice and persistent aspiration, make sure to discuss it with your surgeon on your next follow up appointment.
