Thyroid/Hernia

THYROID SURGEON

Mr McPherson also has a specialist interest in thyroid disease and thyroid lumps, most of which are benign.  A small percentage, around 5%, can be malignant.  Sometimes the thyroid nodules are over-active and can produce a condition called thyrotoxicosis which requires medication.  Occasionally they can be very large and interfere with swallowing and breathing.

All thyroid lumps are seen by Mr McPherson and assessed on ultrasound by specialist, Dr Kesh Misra, who has radiological expertise.  He is able to assess the lump further with ultrasound and if necessary aspirate some tissue from the lump for further assessment.

If these lumps require surgical removal, they are removed under a general anaesthetic by Mr McPherson who has had specialist training in thyroid surgery and the patient is usually able to go home the following day or the day after.

GROIN HERNIAS

Mr McPherson has an interest in hernia repairs and is a member of the British Hernia Society.  Hernias commonly occur in the groin but can develop around the umbilicus (tummy button) and in relation to abdominal wounds.  These are holes in the abdominal wall and can present as lumps which can be painful.   He employs techniques of mesh and plug repair which allows earlier mobility and return to normal activities.

Mr McPherson has a dedicated direct access hernia service which runs every Monday morning at Wycombe Hospital on the NHS and the GP can refer directly to that operating list.  The operation is carried out by Mr McPherson and a Nurse Specialist sees the patient before and after surgery.  The patient is usually able to go home the same day.