Parathyroidectomy

What is a parathyroidectomy?

This is a procedure where one or more of the parathyroid glands are removed. These are located on the back of the thyroid gland in the neck. Sometimes the surgeon will also look at all the parathyroid glands to make sure they don’t need to be removed as well.

When is a parathyroidectomy recommended?

Usually, you will see an endocrinologist to determine if your parathyroid glands are too active and you need surgery. This causes high levels of calcium which can cause bothersome and dangerous symptoms. Treatment is to remove some, a few, or most of the parathyroid glands. The glands also are removed if they contain cancer.

What should I expect from this procedure?

You will be asleep during the procedure. The surgeon will create a small incision in the front of your neck to access the parathyroid glands. Usually, a drain is not needed but may be put in if they have to evaluate and/or remove other structures in your neck for your safety. The drain will be removed in a few days.

What are the risks?

The risks include voice hoarseness that may be temporary or permanent, low calcium, need for calcium and thyroid hormone replacement, removal of thyroid tissue, and a scar. Sometimes bleeding can occur and create a hematoma (collection of blood in your neck) and you may need further surgery to drain it.

What should I expect after surgery?

Most patients can go home after surgery although depending on your age, health, and difficulty of surgery, you may or may not need to stay overnight in the hospital. Usually, there will be a small dressing over the surgical site which is closed with sutures. You should expect to return to work within 1-2 weeks. Typically, recovery from surgery is short and pain is minimal. The most common complaint following surgery is fatigue, a sore throat and generalized soreness, which usually resolves within a week or two.