Subtotal Parathyroidectomy
What is a Subtotal Parathyroidectomy?
A Subtotal Parathyroidectomy is the removal of 3.5 parathyroid glands
Why might I need Subtotal Parathyroidectomy?
Primary hyperparathyroidism associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia
Secondary hyperparathyroidism associated with renal failure
What does Subtotal Parathyroidectomy surgery involve?
Incision at the front of the neck
The procedure aims to identify all 4 parathyroid glands with removal of 3.5 of the glands leaving a small remnant parathyroid tissue
Sometimes a drain tube is placed and is moved the morning after surgery
Dissolvable sutures
Waterproof dressing
Further information about subtotal parathyroidectomy surgery
How long is the recovery after subtotal parathyroidectomy surgery?
Usually an overnight stay in hospital
What are the risks of subtotal parathyroidectomy surgery?
Scar
Bleeding
Infection
Small risk of voice change if there is injury to the recurrent largyngeal nerve
Occasionally diseased parathyroid glands are located within the tissue of the thyroid gland, requiring removal of one lobe of the thyroid to facilitate treatment
Non cure – this can be due to the presence of 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.