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.