Overview
Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one or more of the parathyroid glands, four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck that regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the body through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). The most common indication for parathyroidectomy is primary hyperparathyroidism, a condition in which one or more parathyroid glands become overactive and produce excessive PTH, leading to elevated blood calcium levels. This can cause kidney stones, bone loss, fatigue, depression, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, cardiac and renal complications. Surgery is the only curative treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism.
The Procedure
At ILS Hospitals, parathyroidectomy is performed under general anaesthesia by our endocrine surgical team. Pre-operative imaging including sestamibi scan and neck ultrasound is used to localise the affected gland. In the majority of cases, a minimally invasive focused parathyroidectomy is performed, targeting only the abnormal gland through a small incision with minimal disruption to surrounding structures. Intraoperative PTH monitoring is used to confirm successful removal of the overactive gland, with PTH levels expected to fall by more than 50% within 10 minutes of excision. In cases of multiglandular disease, all four parathyroid glands are explored and the abnormal ones are removed.
Recovery
Recovery following parathyroidectomy is generally swift. Patients are monitored for post-operative hypocalcaemia, a drop in calcium levels that can occur as the remaining parathyroid glands readjust their function. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be prescribed for a period following surgery. Most patients are discharged within 24 hours and can return to normal activities within a week. PTH and calcium levels are monitored in follow-up to confirm cure. At ILS Hospitals, we ensure thorough pre-operative planning, expert surgical execution, and close post-operative monitoring, giving patients the highest chance of a successful, symptom-free outcome.
