Groundbreaking Study Reveals Cause of Post-Thyroid Surgery Weight Gain
A new study identifies calcitonin deficiency, not thyroid hormone loss, as the cause of post-thyroid surgery weight gain. Experts call for revised surgical techniques to preserve healthy thyroid tissue, improving patients’ metabolic health and quality of life.
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Groundbreaking Study Reveals Cause of Post-Thyroid Surgery Weight Gain
New Findings Highlight the Role of Calcitonin Hormone in Weight Management
In a groundbreaking revelation, researchers have identified that post-thyroid surgery weight gain is not due to a deficiency in thyroid hormones but rather a lack of the calcitonin hormone, which is produced by the thyroid gland. This finding, led by Endocrine Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Erhan Ayşan, underscores the need for revised surgical approaches to preserve healthy thyroid tissue.
“Beyond being the body’s conductor, the thyroid has an additional critical function: producing calcitonin. These findings emphasize the importance of a more meticulous and protective approach during thyroid surgeries,” said Prof. Dr. Ayşan.
The Unexpected Culprit: Calcitonin Deficiency, Not Thyroid Hormones
Patients often attribute post-surgery weight gain to thyroid hormone imbalances. However, a recent study published in the Endocrinology and Metabolism Journal debunks this belief. Prof. Dr. Ayşan explained:
“Patients commonly think, ‘I had my thyroid removed, so I’m gaining weight due to hormonal deficiency.’ But new research shows that weight gain is caused by a lack of calcitonin, not thyroid hormones. Calcitonin plays vital roles in appetite control, slowing gastric emptying, and enhancing insulin sensitivity.”
Preserving Healthy Thyroid Tissue is Crucial
Prof. Dr. Ayşan advocates for surgical techniques that spare healthy thyroid tissue.
“In cases where surgery is necessary, removing only the diseased portion of the thyroid can protect calcitonin-producing cells. This reduces the risk of post-surgery weight gain. By preserving parts of the thyroid, patients maintain a natural metabolic balance,” he noted.
In humans, calcitonin is produced solely within the thyroid gland, unlike other mammals, where a separate organ, the ultimobranchial body, performs this function. Removing the thyroid entirely also eliminates this vital hormone source.
Challenges of Calcitonin Supplementation
Currently, calcitonin replacement therapy is unavailable due to side effects associated with earlier medications.
“Unlike thyroid hormone supplements, calcitonin cannot be provided as a drug. Past calcitonin therapies were banned due to adverse effects. This makes it even more critical to retain healthy thyroid tissue during surgery,” said Prof. Dr. Ayşan.
When Full Thyroid Removal is Necessary
Complete thyroid removal is unavoidable in cases such as thyroid cancer or large, severe nodules. Prof. Dr. Ayşan emphasized the importance of prioritizing life-saving treatments in such scenarios but advocated for conservative approaches when dealing with low-risk conditions.
“In less severe cases, preserving healthy tissue ensures both better overall health and improved weight management for patients,” he advised.
Reevaluating the Thyroid’s Importance
Traditionally seen as the body’s hormonal regulator, the thyroid’s newfound role in metabolism further elevates its significance.
“This research reaffirms the thyroid’s critical role. Its ability to produce calcitonin adds another layer of importance. As surgeons, we must adopt modern, patient-focused approaches to safeguard long-term health and quality of life,” concluded Prof. Dr. Ayşan.
Category: Medical Insights
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