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Dr. David Wa Forner, MD, MSC, FRCSC is an otolaryngologist in Ann Arbor, MI specializing in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat). He graduated from Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine in 2017 and has 8 years of experience. Dr. David Wa Forner, MD, MSC, FRCSC is affiliated with The Regents of the University of Michigan and University of Michigan Health.
1500 E Medical Center Drive Floor 1 Reception A
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery, using a tiny opening to get inside the body instead of making a large cut. It uses small tools attached to a thin robotic arm, which is controlled by the surgeon. Robotic surgery may be referred to by the specific kind of robot that is used. The most advanced robot currently in use is called the da Vinci, and surgery using it is sometimes called da Vinci surgery.
There are many benefits to robotic surgery, both for the patient and the surgeon. Robotic surgery allows for more precise movements and increased control during very delicate surgical procedures. This makes performing surgery accurately much easier for surgeons and reduces fatigue. The smaller 'hand' of the robot can enter the body via a much smaller opening, which reduces the risk of infection and scarring and leads to a faster recovery. The robotic hands also contain tiny moveable cameras among their tools, giving surgeons a much closer view of the procedure than would be possible with traditional surgery.
Thyroid Surgery
Thyroid surgery is a procedure to remove all or part of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the lower neck that regulates the hormones that manage metabolism. Thyroid surgery, also known as thyroidectomy, treats thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), goiters (noncancerous thyroid inflammation), and thyroid cancer. It may also be used to remove thyroid nodules or cysts that have a risk of becoming cancerous.
Both hypothyroidism and goiters are caused by an autoimmune reaction where the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The thyroid reacts by releasing too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones, impairing thyroid function and causing irregular metabolism. Goiters develop from the autoimmune reaction causing continued antibody damage to the thyroid over time. Thyroid goiters are large, swollen lumps that can be felt near the base of the neck. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. Hypothyroidism may also be caused by iodine deficiency, as iodine is needed to produce thyroid hormones.
The exact cause of thyroid cancer and thyroid nodules or cysts is unknown. While thyroid cancer and thyroid nodules or cysts can occur in individuals with thyroid disorders, they are not associated with a malfunctioning thyroid.
Physicians may prescribe thyroid surgery if blood tests reveal patients' thyroid stimulating hormones (TSA) are outside of the acceptable range, indicating a malfunctioning thyroid. Thyroid biopsies (tissue samples) and tests for thyroid-attacking antibodies are also criteria for surgery.
An ENT or general surgeon performs thyroid surgery. While a patient is placed under anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision at the center of the neck and removes the thyroid gland. Two alternative methods of thyroid surgery are transoral (incision through the mouth) and endoscopic, where a surgeon operates a video camera for live footage to help guide the removal process.
Thyroid surgery requires minimal aftercare. Most patients recover quickly and resume normal activities within a few days of surgery. However, thyroid surgery patients must take daily synthetic thyroid medication (levothyroxine) for life to replace their removed thyroid.
Dr. David Wa Forner, MD, MSC, FRCSC graduated from Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine in 2017. He completed residency at Dalhousie University Affiliated Hospitals. He is certified by the Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery and has a state license in Michigan.
Medical School: Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine (2017)
Residency: Dalhousie University Affiliated Hospitals (2023)
Board Certification: Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery
Licensed In: Michigan
Dr. David Wa Forner, MD, MSC, FRCSC is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
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Dr. David Forner is a physician who specializes in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat). Areas of expertise for Dr. Forner include salivary gland surgery, thyroid surgery, and head and neck reconstructive surgery. Dr. Forner attended Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine and then went on to complete his residency at a hospital affiliated with Dalhousie University. He is professionally affiliated with the University of Michigan Health.
