Is there a disability if the thyroid gland is removed in whole or in part

In what cases, after removal of the thyroid gland , a disability group is given depends on the consequences of the disease and the operation. A surgical procedure ( thyroidectomy ) is performed when medical methods do not bring a positive result. Often, the consequence of the removal of the endocrine gland is a partial or complete loss of the ability to work. In Russia, it is possible to obtain disabled status for people with a removed thyroid gland.    

Consequences and complications of the operation

Whether disability will be given after removal of the thyroid gland depends on how pronounced the negative consequences of the operation are. The decision on the assignment of a disability group is made by the members of the medical and social commission on the basis of the medical documents provided by the patient. They should reflect the facts indicating the deterioration of health.

The consequences of surgery depend on whether only part of the gland or the entire organ has been removed.

In the latter case, simultaneously with the thyroid gland, a person also loses the parathyroid glands, which are responsible for calcium metabolism. As a result, a mineral deficiency develops, and the risk of cramps and bone fragility increases. To avoid calcium deficiency, doctors recommend taking special medications. After the removal of the parathyroid glands , disability is required.   

If part of the gland is removed during thyroidectomy , then the preserved healthy lobe is able to perform the function of the lost one, to compensate for the lack of hormones. But when the entire organ is removed, biologically active substances are not produced, hypothyroidism occurs . Therefore, after removal of the endocrine gland, a constant intake of synthetic hormones (Thyroidin, L-Thyroxin, Thyroxin ) is prescribed and it is recommended to issue a disability group.   

After removal of the gland, it is necessary to check the level of hormones at least once every 3 months so that the endocrinologist can adjust the dosage of drugs. Failure to comply with this rule leads to a deterioration in well-being, which manifests itself:

  • a sharp change in mood (from apathy to irritability);
  • increased fatigue;
  • rapid accumulation of extra pounds;
  • cardiac disorders;
  • hypertension;
  • deterioration of vision;
  • premature menopause;
  • lack of sexual desire.

More rare complications:

  • violation of the integrity of the nerve branches of the larynx and the recurrent nerve, due to which the voice becomes hoarse, hoarse, or disappears completely;
  • purulent process in the seam area;
  • bleeding.

What is forbidden for a person to do after removal of the thyroid gland

The very absence of a thyroid gland is not a strong enough argument for obtaining disabled status. But a group is needed if, after surgery on the gland, a person is unable to engage in their usual work activities. The restrictions for the operated include:

  • high physical activity;
  • the need for high concentration and quick switching of attention;
  • work in conditions of ionizing radiation.

After removal of the thyroid gland, young men are not drafted into the army. 

It is not recommended to work on a floating schedule and on night shifts.

Surveys required for registration of the group

In order to get a disability after removing the thyroid gland, an examination is necessary (at least 2 months must pass). Sends a district or endocrinologist for diagnosis , who is registered with the patient. Need to: 

  • consult with a therapist and narrow specialists (surgeon, cardiologist, neurologist);
  • undergo clinical blood and urine tests;
  • donate blood biochemistry – the level of thyroid hormones, calcium, sugar, cholesterol, protein-iodine bonds; 
  • make an ultrasound scan of the anterior surface of the neck, abdominal organs.  

During preparation for registration of disability, it is worth making copies of all epicrisis, test results and advisory opinions (in case of loss of documents).

Based on the results of the examination, the endocrinologist or therapist issues a conclusion on the state of health, the presence of complications with their description. An individual rehabilitation plan must be developed.

Disability assessment process at ITU

Those who have had their thyroid gland removed receive a referral to the ITU at the polyclinic (at the Pension Fund office or the social security body at the place of residence). This document, the results of examinations, expert opinions, a photocopy of the passport and a statement of desire to undergo an examination are submitted to the ITU. When the thyroid gland is removed, disability is given, the group of which is associated with the severity of the pathology.

Disability groups

Serious violations, in which a person loses the ability to lead a normal life, work – the basis for granting disability. The severity of the pathology corresponds to the group assigned by the ITU:

  1. oncological diseases, hypothyroidism with disruption of the heart, blood vessels and nervous system; 
  2. difficulty breathing, severe impaired mobility of the shoulder, upper spine, loss of voice (aphonia);
  3. moderate decrease in mobility in the shoulder, spasm of the larynx, problems with speech (constant hoarseness, hoarseness), corrected hypothyroidism.

The commission considers the issue of granting disability and communicates the verdict to the person who had the gland removed. If the result is positive, he proceeds to the registration of benefits.

What benefits are provided

Getting a disability group after having a thyroid gland removed qualifies you for benefits. A person receives free vouchers to endocrinological sanatoriums, has the opportunity to use transport at a discount. Monetary compensation (pension) is paid. There is a possibility of reducing utility bills and obtaining a tax rebate.

The list of benefits depends on the disability group. Disabled persons of group 1 enjoy the widest possible rights.

Requirements for working conditions

For people with a removed gland, it is recommended to work during the daytime, not associated with stress and high physical activity. A person should be able to take medications on time, undergo preventive treatment.

What to do if you are refused

If the thyroid gland is removed, but the clinic does not issue a referral to the commission, you should contact the local branch of the Pension Fund. Having received a refusal a second time, you need to demand a certificate explaining its reason.

The official document is allowed to independently apply to the ITU. The Commission determines whether there are grounds for granting disability and issues its own certificate. With her, you need to go to the clinic again and get a referral there (F No. 088 / y-06). After that, you can submit the entire package of documents to the ITU.

The refusal of the commission to grant disability should be discussed with an independent expert, then a court application to appeal against the decision of the commission should be filed. The court considers the case no later than 3 years after the refusal of the expert commission.

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