Radioactive Iodine - One shot? That's all?
RADIOIODINE
95% Cure Rate with a single injection
Treatment of Choice and Considered the Gold Standard.
No Anesthesia*
The thyroid gland uses iodine to make thyroid hormone. When we administer the radioactive form of iodine (I-131) the thyroid tumor (think of it as a 'greedy bully') that has taken over the thyroid takes up all the radioiodine leaving the normal thyroid tissue with nothing (don't worry, this is a good thing).
This radioactive form of iodine emits radiation, destroying the overactive thyroid tumor cells! Since the normal tissue wasn't able to take up the radioiodine it's left unharmed. It takes 3-6 months for the normal tissue to start functioning in a normal fashion again! Who doesn't love a happy ending?
What's the Catch? There really isn't one!
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A very small number of cats may require a second treatment or need supplemental thyroid medication, but this is uncommon.
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Alabama law, your cat is required to be hospitalized until the (gamma) radiation levels are safe to go home (typically 3-5 days) following your cat's injection.
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Give us a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gandy to see if your cat is a candidate!
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Some cats may require sedation for examination and to safely administer the injection.