Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic, autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles, which are responsible for breathing and moving parts of the body. Patients with MG can experience fluctuating levels of weakness and fatigue throughout the day. While there is no cure for MG, it is possible to manage the symptoms and lead a normal life with proper treatment.
Can Myasthenia Gravis Be Operated On?
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat Myasthenia Gravis. Surgery may be used to treat the underlying cause of MG, such as thymoma (a tumor of the thymus gland), or to remove a thymectomy (surgical removal of the thymus gland). Surgery may also be used to improve symptoms such as double vision, difficulty speaking, or difficulty swallowing.
Thymectomy is the surgical removal of the thymus gland, which is located in the chest behind the breastbone. It is the most common surgical treatment for MG and can improve the symptoms and the quality of life for many patients. During a thymectomy, the surgeon removes the thymus gland and some of the surrounding tissue, including the fatty tissue and lymph nodes. In some cases, a partial thymectomy may be recommended, which involves removing only part of the thymus gland.
Thymoma is a tumor of the thymus gland that is usually benign (non-cancerous). In some cases, however, thymoma can become malignant (cancerous). If a patient has a thymoma, it may need to be surgically removed to reduce the risk of the tumor becoming cancerous.
In other cases, surgery may be necessary to address other issues caused by MG, such as double vision, difficulty speaking, or difficulty swallowing. For example, a patient may need to have surgery to correct double vision or to repair muscles that have been weakened by MG.
Conclusion
Myasthenia Gravis is a chronic, autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that can cause weakness and fatigue throughout the day. While there is no cure for MG, it is possible to manage the symptoms and lead a normal life with proper treatment. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of MG or to improve symptoms such as double vision, difficulty speaking, or difficulty swallowing. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of any surgery with your doctor before proceeding.