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Parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove one or more of the parathyroid glands. These small glands, located behind the thyroid in the neck, play a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood by producing parathyroid hormone (PTH). When one or more of these glands become overactive, a condition known as hyperparathyroidism occurs, which results in elevated calcium levels. This imbalance can result in a variety of symptoms, such as bone pain, kidney stones, fatigue, and cognitive issues. Parathyroidectomy is the only definitive treatment for hyperparathyroidism and it aims to restore normal calcium levels by removing the problematic glands.
There are several types of parathyroidectomy, depending on the patient's condition and the number of glands involved:
Parathyroidectomy works by surgically removing one or more overactive parathyroid glands to restore normal calcium levels in the body. Before the surgery, imaging techniques such as ultrasound or sestamibi scans are used to pinpoint the location of the overactive glands. Once identified, the surgeon makes a small incision in the neck, typically using minimally invasive techniques when only one gland is involved.
During the procedure, the surgeon carefully dissects the tissues to expose the parathyroid glands and removes the problematic ones. If multiple glands are affected, the surgeon may explore all four glands to determine which ones need removal.
In some cases, especially when all four glands are removed, a portion of healthy parathyroid tissue may be transplanted into another part of the body, such as the forearm, to maintain calcium regulation. The surgery typically lasts about an hour or two, and patients can expect to go home after a day or two in hospital.
Parathyroidectomy offers significant health improvements, particularly for patients with hyperparathyroidism . By removing the overactive parathyroid glands, the procedure restores calcium levels to a healthy range, which helps reduce symptoms and prevent complications associated with elevated calcium. Here are the key benefits of parathyroidectomy:
Parathyroidectomy is primarily used to treat conditions related to abnormal parathyroid gland function, particularly when the glands produce excessive parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to imbalanced calcium levels in the body. The main conditions treated by this surgery include:
When you enter NC Tan Surgery for your parathyroidectomy, the first step will be a detailed preoperative consultation. Your surgeon will guide you through the necessary preparations, such as any fasting requirements and what to expect during the procedure. Preoperative imaging, such as ultrasound or a sestamibi scan, will have already been done to locate the overactive glands, which helps ensure smooth and efficient surgery.
Once in the operating room, you will receive general anaesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. The surgery typically lasts around one to two hours, and the surgeon will carefully remove the affected parathyroid glands.
After the surgery, you will be monitored for a few hours in the recovery room, where the medical team will ensure your vital signs are stable and there are no immediate complications. Postoperative care involves managing mild discomfort at the incision site and taking calcium supplements temporarily to help regulate calcium levels while your body adjusts.
Recovery time is generally quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days and full recovery taking about 1 to 3 weeks. You can expect significant improvements in your symptoms shortly after surgery, including relief from bone pain, kidney stones, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties, as your calcium levels normalise.
Parathyroidectomy is typically a one-time procedure. In most cases, a single surgery is sufficient to remove the overactive parathyroid gland or glands and restore normal calcium levels in the body. With a success rate of over 95%, patients generally do not require multiple sessions.
However, in rare cases where hyperparathyroidism recurs or if an overactive gland was not identified during the initial surgery, a second procedure may be necessary. This is uncommon and usually occurs when multiple glands are affected or if imaging was unable to detect all the problematic glands beforehand.
If you have been diagnosed with a parathyroid condition requiring surgery, schedule an appointment with NC Tan Surgery to find out how parathyroidectomy can restore your health.
You can resume light activities like walking the day of the surgery, but avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about a week. Most patients can return to work within one to two weeks, depending on how they feel.
You can generally return to work within one to two weeks post-surgery, although it depends on your recovery. Many patients feel ready after just a few days of rest.
Some discomfort is normal after surgery, particularly when swallowing. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter medications like Paracetamol, and most patients do not require stronger painkillers.
Yes, there will be a small scar, but surgeons typically place the incision in a natural skin fold to minimise its visibility. With proper healing, the scar often fades significantly within six months.
You can resume a normal diet as tolerated, but be sure to stay hydrated. There are usually no specific dietary restrictions after surgery.
Some calcium supplements, like calcium carbonate, can cause constipation. Switching to calcium citrate (e.g., Citracal) may help, and over-the-counter laxatives can also be used if needed.
1 Farrer Park Station Road
#14-02 Connexion Singapore 217562
Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm
Sunday & PHs Closed
