Research Assistant of Clinical Sciences, Windsor University School of Medicine, Cayon, St Kitts and Nevis
Research Faculty Physician, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USAUnited States
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As illustrated in Figure 1, the scan shows uniform isotope uptake evident of the right and left lobes of the thyroid gland with no focal areas of decreased or increased uptake. The radiologic impression significantly increased the isotope uptake at both 5-hours and 23-hours that is consistent with the graves disease. After the detailed discussion about the probable results with the patient, high-risk obstetric surgery was planned. A low transverse C-section was performed along with bilateral salpingectomy. The patient tolerated the procedure well with no anesthetic complications. Upon the birth of the neonate, there were no complications reported after assessment by an inhouse neonatologist. Thus, making this high-risk surgery a success. Graves disease affects 1 out of every 1000 women and the unique steps taken during this case has made it successful and noteworthy
Keywords: Given the fact that poorly controlled thyrotoxicosis is related to several maternal and fetal complications
It is important to note that the patient was documented as clinically euthyroid and short-term corticosteroids were given. Despite the patient’s history of hyperthyroidism disease, she had no reported complications during any previous pregnancies.3 Given the fact that poorly controlled thyrotoxicosis is related to several maternal and fetal complications, it is crucial to achieve euthyroidism rapidly. Short-term courses of corticosteroids should be considered to attain rapid clinical and biochemical control of thyrotoxicosis.4 Fluctuating levels of initial diagnostic testing led to consideration of nuclear medicine. In addition to reducing the risk for the fetus being exposed to radioactive material through aggressive hydration of the mother, many studies have suggested pregnant women do not undergo nuclear medicine procedures unless risks outweigh safety.1 Risk is considered fairly low when used for diagnostic purposes, as highlighted in this case. As fetal surveillance is highly paramount, the patient reported that she had been seeing an ob- 2 stetrician regularly for prenatal care. Successful high-risk surgery Women Health Open J. 2024; 10(1): 1-2.
was completed, and postpartum advice to not breastfeed after the surgery due to exposure of radiation was explained to the patient.
The authors have received written informed consent from the patient.
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.