Parathyroidectomy

What are the Parathyroid Glands?

Most people have four parathyroid glands, which are in your neck and control the balance of calcium in your blood by making parathyroid hormone (PTH). One or more of the parathyroid glands can become overactive, causing an increase in the level of calcium. The most common symptom is bone pain.

The Procedure

What are the Benefits of Parathyroidectomy?

Your symptoms should improve. You should have less risk of permanent damage to your bones, kidneys or heart.

Are There Any Alternatives to Parathyroidectomy?

Sometimes you can have medication if the calcium level is not too high or if surgery would be too dangerous because of other medical problems you may have.

What Does the Parathyroidectomy Involve?

The operation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. The operation usually takes about an hour.

Your surgeon will make a cut on your neck in the line of one of your skin creases and remove any enlarged glands (see figure 1).

What Complications Can Happen?

General Complications

Pain
Infection of the surgical site (wound)
Unsightly scarring
Blood clots

Specific Complications

Bleeding
Change in your voice
Breathing difficulties
Drop in calcium levels
Failure of the operation

Following Surgery

How Soon Will I Recover?

You should be able to go home after one to two days.

You should be able to return to work and normal activities after about two weeks.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

A normal gland that was not removed may become overactive in the future.

Summary

Parathyroid glands can become overactive, causing an increase in the level of calcium in your blood. Surgery to remove any affected glands is the only reliable way to prevent long-term problems.

To enquire about parathyroid gland surgery at New Victoria Hospital, call 020 8949 9020 or fill out our contact form.

Acknowledgements

Author: Mr Keith Rigg FRCS MD

The operation and treatment information on this website is published under license by New Victoria Hospital from EIDO Healthcare UK and is protected by copyright laws. Other than for your personal, non-commercial use, you may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any of the information. The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.