Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy
What is a minimally invasive parathyroidectomy?
Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy involves the removal of one parathyroid gland when preoperative scans have identified an enlarged parathyroid gland to target.
Why might I need a minimally invasive parathyroidectomy?
Primary hyperparathyroidism
What does minimally invasive parathyroid surgery involve?
Small incision at the front of the neck
The procedure targets the enlarged parathyroid gland identified on preoperative scans
Dissolvable sutures
Waterproof dressing
Condition Details
How long is the recovery after focused parathyroid surgery?
How long is the recovery after focused parathyroid surgery?
Uncomplicated focused parathyroidectomy can be performed as a day procedure
What are the risks of focused parathyroid surgery?
Scar
Bleeding
Infection
Small risk of voice change if there is injury to the recurrent largyngeal nerve
Conversion to a bilateral exploration parathyroidectomy if the abnormal gland cannot be identified or is identified but appears normal
Non cure – this can be due to the presence of a second abnormal parathyroid or more rarely, ectopic (abnormally located) or supernumerary (more than 4) parathyroid glands
Hypocalcaemia – once the overactive parathyroid gland has been removed the calcium can become low until the remaining parathyroid glands regain their function.