Operative Myxedema.

Removal of the thyroid gland for surgical reasons has resulted in the gradual production of the same conditions that are found in myxedema of the adult or cretinism. These results are not apt to follow if a portion of the gland remains; hence the surgeon should be careful never to remove the entire gland, unless due to malignant growths. We are not to understand, however, that myxedema strumipriva always follows a complete thyroidectomy, for accessary glands elsewhere may prevent such a result.

The Eclectic Practice of Medicine, 1907, was written by Rolla L. Thomas, M. S., M. D.