Where exactly is the thyroid gland located in the neck?

The thyroid gland is situated in the anterior neck at vertebral levels C5–T1. It wraps around the upper trachea, below the thyroid cartilage, and clasps both the larynx and trachea.

What is the basic structure of the thyroid gland?

The thyroid has an H-shaped structure consisting of two lateral lobes connected by a central isthmus. Sometimes, a pyramidal lobe projects upward from the isthmus.

Why is the thyroid capsule important during surgery?

The thyroid has a true capsule (fibrous stroma) and a false capsule (from pretracheal fascia). A venous plexus lies deep to the true capsule, so during thyroidectomy, the gland is removed with its capsule to prevent bleeding.

What are the main arteries that supply blood to the thyroid?

The thyroid receives arterial supply from the superior thyroid artery (from external carotid), inferior thyroid artery (from thyrocervical trunk), and sometimes a thyroidea ima artery (present in 30%).

How does the thyroid gland develop embryologically?

The thyroid develops from an endodermal thickening at the base of the tongue in the 3rd week. It descends via a thyroglossal duct to form the gland by week 7, with the foramen cecum marking its origin.

What are the key clinical conditions associated with the thyroid?

Common thyroid conditions include goitre (enlargement), hypothyroidism (e.g., cretinism, myxedema), and hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis). Thyroid swellings move with swallowing due to fascial attachments.

What nerves are at risk during thyroid surgery and why?

During thyroidectomy, surgeons must avoid the external laryngeal nerve (near superior thyroid artery) and recurrent laryngeal nerve (near inferior thyroid artery). Injury can affect voice and swallowing.

Thyroid Gland – Anatomy, Blood Supply & Clinical

❓ Frequently Asked Questions