Treatment

Parathyroidectomy

Overview

Parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove one or more of the parathyroid glands. These small glands, located near the thyroid in your neck, are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood. When one or more of these glands become overactive, which is a condition called hyperparathyroidism, they can produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to high calcium levels, which can harm bones, kidneys and other parts of the body.

This treatment, often referred to as parathyroid gland surgery, is considered the most effective way to cure hyperparathyroidism and restore normal calcium levels.

Why Parathyroidectomy Treatment is Required?

• To treat primary hyperparathyroidism caused by a benign tumor (adenoma) or gland overgrowth.
• To prevent complications like kidney stones, osteoporosis and bone fractures.
• When symptoms like fatigue, depression, abdominal pain and muscle weakness appear due to high calcium levels.
• If you are diagnosed with parahyperthyroidism and medications are not effective.
• In cases where blood tests show consistently high calcium and PTH levels.
• To avoid long-term health issues caused by excessive calcium in the blood.

Key Advantages of Parathyroidectomy Treatment

• Permanent cure for hyperparathyroidism in most patients.
• Restores normal calcium levels in the body.
• Improves bone density and reduces risk of fractures.
• Prevents damage to kidneys caused by high calcium.
• Boosts energy levels and improves overall well-being.
• May improve life expectancy after parathyroid surgery for those with severe symptoms.
• Reduces risks of heart and nervous system complications linked to calcium imbalance.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Parathyroidectomy Treatment

• Discuss your full medical history with your surgeon.
• Get routine blood tests, including calcium and PTH levels.
• Undergo imaging tests like ultrasound or Sestamibi scan to locate the abnormal gland.
• Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
• You may need to stop blood-thinning medications before surgery.
• Follow fasting instructions, usually no food or drink after midnight before surgery.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you on the day of surgery and help at home during parathyroid surgery recovery.

How Parathyroidectomy Treatment is Performed?

• Done under general or local anesthesia, depending on the case.
• A small incision is made in the neck to access the parathyroid glands.
• The abnormal glands are identified and carefully removed (parathyroid removal).
• Healthy glands are left untouched unless they are also overactive.
• Minimally invasive techniques are often used, resulting in faster recovery and minimal scarring.
• The procedure takes about 1–2 hours and is commonly done as a same-day surgery.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Detailed evaluation with blood and imaging tests.
• Instructions for fasting and stopping certain medications.
• Meeting your surgeon and anesthesiologist.
• During Procedure:
• You will be under anesthesia and won’t feel pain.
• Surgeon removes the abnormal parathyroid gland(s).
• A small neck incision is made (minimal discomfort).
• After Procedure:
• Recovery in the hospital for a few hours or overnight.
• Mild throat soreness or neck discomfort for a few days.
• Most people resume normal activities within a week.
• Follow-up tests to confirm normal calcium and PTH levels.
• Full parathyroid surgery recovery time varies but is usually short.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Bleeding or infection at the surgical site.
• Injury to nearby nerves, especially the vocal cord nerve (rare).
• Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) after surgery, needing temporary supplements.
• Scarring or tightness at the incision site.
• Rare cases of persistent or recurrent hyperparathyroidism.
• Temporary changes in voice or swallowing.

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients see immediate or gradual improvement in symptoms.
• Calcium and PTH levels return to normal within days.
• Significant improvement in bone health and kidney function.
• Patients often experience better mood, energy and mental clarity.
• Long-term results are excellent, especially with early diagnosis and expert care.
• Many patients live a longer and healthier life after successful parathyroidectomy.