Patients with uncontrollable hyperthyroidism, symptoms related to a goiter like difficulty swallowing or breathing or thyroid cancer are candidates for a thyroidectomy. This procedure involves the removal of the entire thyroid gland. Occasionally when surgery is performed for benign conditions or to preserve nerve function, some thyroid tissue will be left in place. The removal of the thyroid gland is performed under general anesthesia to help control the pain and anxiety often associated with surgery. A drain will often be left in place over night to remove fluid form the neck. Patients usually stay in the hospital for one night following the procedure.