CPT® Code 60271

A thyroidectomy, specifically CPT® Code 60271, refers to the surgical removal of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck and consists of two lobes that encircle the trachea. This procedure is particularly indicated when there is an enlargement of the thyroid, known as a substernal thyroid, which can extend down into the chest cavity. The cervical approach utilized in this procedure involves making a supraclavicular incision to access the thyroid gland. The surgeon begins by excising the substernal portion of the thyroid, which may require careful dissection to separate it from surrounding fibrous attachments. This approach allows for the effective removal of the thyroid tissue that has migrated into the mediastinum, ensuring that the entire gland can be safely extracted. The procedure is performed with attention to preserving critical structures such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve and the parathyroid glands, which are essential for maintaining normal vocal function and calcium metabolism, respectively. Overall, this surgical intervention is crucial for addressing conditions related to thyroid enlargement and ensuring the patient's health and well-being.