Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know if I need Thyroid or Parathyroid surgery?
After thorough, non-invasive procedures such as thyroid and neck ultrasounds, as well as ultrasound-guided fine needle aspirations, your doctors will determine whether or not surgery is necessary. Sometimes, patients may exhibit voice hoarseness when a thyroid nodule enlarges. It may push on the windpipe, vocal cords, and even the esophagus. When the symptoms become severe, we may suggest surgery.
Parathyroid glands regulate the blood calcium levels in the body. When the glands are malfunctioning, they produce too much, causing a variety of symptoms including lethargy, problems with concentration, memory loss, depression, high blood pressure, heart problems, kidney stones, and bone density loss/osteoporosis. These symptoms, along with an abnormal amount of parathyroid hormone in the body may mean that surgery is necessary.
What does an ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration entail?
An ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy utilizes sound waves to locate a abnormalities within the thyroid or the neck. We then remove a tissue sample for further examination. This is a minimally invasive procedure that causes minimal discomfort, leaves no scarring and has no exposure to radiation. It’s also very affordable.
How long is a thyroid or parathyroid surgery?
The length of your surgery is dependent upon the skill of your surgeon as well as the type of surgery that is being performed. Consult with your doctor to learn about which procedure you are having.
Are your providers board certified?
Yes. Dr Vazquez is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. It’s the highest designation provided to only surgeons that are board certified. Dr. Wcislak is also a board certified General Surgeon with Advanced Fellowship Training in Endocrine Surgery. APC Virginia Marlow is an experienced certified Physician Assistant with Specialty Training in surgical care.
How many procedures has Dr. Vazquez done?
Dr Vazquez performs >450 endocrine cases per year. This makes her one of the busiest endocrine surgeons in United States and the World. That includes thyroid, parathyroid, cervical lymph node dissections and adrenal surgery. Many of our patients have undergone failed initial surgeries for their disease or have recurrent/persistent disease.
What insurances do you take?
Dr Vazquez, Dr Wcislak & APC Marlow accept all major insurances in the state of Arizona, including: BCBS, United, Cigna, Humana, AETNA, Tricare, Medicare and many others. Call our office for more details. CLICK HERE for a list of insurance we accept.
How about cash pay or patients with insurances she doesn’t take?
Understanding that surgery has hospital fees, surgical assist and anesthesia fees is very important. For patients without insurance or with insurances we don’t yet accept Dr. Vazquez is committed to offer her professionals fees at a similar out of pocket rate to commercial payers. Please call our Clinic Manager Amy for details.
HOURS
Monday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm
480-454-8182
contactus@azthyroidsurgery.com
