Hi @hopeful23, we are assuming this is malignant (between the biopsy results as well as the features from the ultrasound -- irregular margins and microcalcifications). There's a very small chance for it to turn out to be benign, though it does occasionally happen. My nodule is in the center of the left lobe, appears completely contained, is small and they see no evidence of spread to the lymph nodes, so he is confident that we can get it all out without taking the entire gland. That said, if he finds anything else suspicious when he is in there, like in the central compartment, they will test it and if cancer is detected I have agreed that he may proceed with a total thyroidectomy.

For me, understanding this (as much as a layperson can!) helps me -- diving into the practical, clinical side of things pulls me away from the "what-if" edge. I read the NCCN guidelines, which has been very informative, and his approach is consistent with their recommendations for treatment of nodules with the same characteristics as mine (and there is a choice between total thyroidectomy or lobectomy). If you haven't seen it yet and are interested, you can create an account as a patient at NCCN.org and select guidelines>treatment by cancer type>thyroid carcinoma for the clinical practice guidelines or you can select the patient resources link.

I would definitely like to hear how it goes for you! Wishing you the very best outcome and speedy recovery!

Lise