Comprehensive Review of Thyroid Embryology, Anatomy, Histology, and Physiology for Surgeons

Abstract

Emil Theodor Kocher and Theodor Billroth pioneered the surgical management of thyroid disease. Their surgical techniques, knowledge of thyroid anatomy, embryology, histology, physiology, and antisepsis practices transitioned a life-threatening operation to one with acceptable morbidity. The modern head and neck surgeon should have a meticulous surgical technique, combined with a thorough understanding of thyroid embryology and anatomy that is central to the understanding and treatment of the different disease processes of the thyroid gland and the consequences of thyroid gland surgery. In this manuscript we will be examining thyroid gland embryology, anatomy, histology, and physiology that is essential to the practicing thyroid surgeon.