Thyroidectomy is performed to treat a variety of conditions affecting the thyroid gland, including thyroid enlargement (goiter), benign and malignant thyroid nodules, hyperthyroidism (such as Graves' disease), and thyroid cancer.

 The surgery can involve removing one lobe (thyroid lobectomy) or both lobes (total thyroidectomy). In cases of thyroid cancer, the procedure may also include the removal of surrounding lymph nodes. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves making an incision at the base of the neck to access the thyroid gland. After removal, the incision is closed, and the patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days.