Parathyroidectomy
Definition
Parathyroidectomy is surgery to remove parathyroid glands or parathyroid tumors.
Alternative Names
Removal of parathyroid gland; Parathyroid gland removalDescription
Parathyroidectomy is done while you are under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). Sometimes it is done with regional anesthesia (awake, but pain-free). The surgeon makes a cut in the neck just under the Adam's apple and locates the four parathyroid glands.
The particular problem or disease will determine how many of the parathyroid glands are removed. Usually, some parathyroid tissue is left in place to help prevent hypoparathyroidism (low levels of parathyroid hormone).
Why the Procedure is Performed
Parathyroidectomy is recommended when one or more parathyroid glands are producing excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone. This condition is called hyperparathyroidism.
Recovery
Normal activity usually can be resumed within a few days.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Patients usually recovery very quickly after surgery, especially when minimally invasive techniques are used.
Following this procedure, you should have routine blood tests to check your calcium level.
Risks
Risks for any anesthesia include the following:
- Reactions to medications
- Problems breathing
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to the thyroid gland
- Hypoparathyroidism (leading to dangerously low calcium levels)
- Injury to the vocal cord nerves
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.