Parathyroidectomy

Did you know that 95% of patients with symptomatic hyperparathyroidism experience normalization of calcium levels after parathyroidectomy surgery, leading to improved overall health? Keep reading to discover what parathyroidectomy is, the benefits it offers, when it’s needed, and what the recovery process looks like.

What is Parathyroidectomy?

Parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure where one or more of the parathyroid glands are removed. These small glands, located in the neck near the thyroid gland, help control calcium levels in the body by producing a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH). By removing the affected gland(s), parathyroidectomy can help restore normal calcium balance, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall health and well-being.

Why Is Parathyroidectomy Necessary?

Parathyroidectomy is performed to treat hyperparathyroidism, a condition in which the parathyroid glands become overactive and produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to elevated calcium levels in the blood. This can cause various health issues, including kidney stones, osteoporosis, fatigue, and abdominal and bone pain. Surgery is often recommended when patients experience significant symptoms or when blood tests show dangerously high calcium levels. Additionally, parathyroidectomy may be needed for benign tumors on the glands, secondary hyperparathyroidism due to chronic kidney disease, or tertiary hyperparathyroidism after a kidney transplant. By removing the problematic gland(s), the surgery helps restore balance in the body, alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. Studies have shown that 85% of patients who undergo parathyroidectomy report significant relief from symptoms such as fatigue, kidney stones, and bone pain.

The Parathyroidectomy Procedure

Preoperative Preparation

Before the surgery, patients will undergo several evaluations to ensure the patient is ready for the procedure.

Blood Tests: To check calcium, phosphorus, and PTH levels.
Imaging Studies: Ultrasounds or scans show any overactive parathyroid gland(s) or abnormalities.
Medical History Review: Discussing any existing health conditions and medications with the ear, nose, and throat surgeon.

Patients may be advised to avoid certain medications, especially blood thinners, in the days leading up to the surgery.

The Surgery

The surgical approach can vary based on how many glands need to be removed and the surgeon's preference.

Open Surgery: This traditional method involves making an incision in the neck to access the parathyroid glands directly. The size of the cut may vary depending on the complexity of your case.
Minimally Invasive Surgery: If the patient has clearly defined abnormal glands, a smaller incision may be made using specialized instruments. This method, which is often guided by imaging studies, allows for quicker recovery and less discomfort after surgery.

During the operation, the ENT surgeon will carefully identify and remove the affected gland(s). If multiple glands are involved, they will assess how many need to be taken out.

Anesthesia

Parathyroidectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient will be asleep and pain-free during the procedure. In some cases, local anesthesia with sedation may be used for minimally invasive approaches.

Duration

The surgery typically lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how complex the situation is.

Recovery After Parathyroidectomy

Hospital Stay

Most patients can go home on the same day or stay overnight, depending on how well they recover. Many people are able to return to their normal activities within a week or two. Patients will have follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and check calcium levels.

Postoperative Care

After surgery, it is important to follow the post-recovery instructions to ensure a smooth healing process. Common recommendations include resting and avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks to allow the body to heal properly. It is also important to keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection. Additionally, the patient should be vigilant about watching for any signs of complications, such as infection or excessive bleeding, and contact the healthcare provider if there is anything concerning. Following these guidelines will help support recovery and promote a successful outcome.

Follow-Up Care

The patient will likely have follow-up appointments to monitor the calcium and PTH levels after surgery. This is crucial for ensuring that the calcium levels normalize and that the body adjusts properly.

What to Expect Long-Term

Many patients notice significant improvements in their symptoms after parathyroidectomy. The surgery often resolves high calcium levels and related complications, leading to better quality of life. However, it's important to maintain regular check-ups with the healthcare provider to monitor overall health and manage any potential long-term effects.

If you think you might have a problem with your parathyroid glands or have any health questions, it’s important to talk to a qualified ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. They can give you personalized advice and discuss treatment options that are right for you. Taking the first step toward better health begins with understanding your condition and figuring out the best way to recover.