PARATHYROID SURGERY

DRP Surgery > PARATHYROID SURGERY

PARATHYROID GLAND

The parathyroid glands  are four tiny glands that are located on the thyroid gland. The primary function of these glands is the production of parathyroid hormone. This hormone is one of the necessities of the human body and its function is to maintain the calcium levels in the body. Overproduction or inadequate production of this hormone may lead to serious complications..

DISEASES OF PARATHYROID GLAND

Parathyroid gland may function abnormally and result in one of the following conditions:
1. Hyperparathyroidism: A condition in which there is excessive production of parathyroid hormones.
2. Hypoparathyroidism: Inadequate or no production of parathyroid hormones is referred to as Hypoparathyroidism.

Parathyroid Cancer is very rare. It usually presents as hyperparathyroidism because parathyroid hormones are raised in parathyroid cancer. A mass in the neck is one of the main signs of parathyroid cancer.

HYPERPARATHYROIDISM

  • Weakness & fatigue
  • Bone pain
  • Muscle pain
  • Constipation

HYPOPARATHYROIDISM

  • Muscle contraction
  • Muscle weakness
  • Numbness
  • Paresthesia – loss of senses

SYMPTOMS OF PARATHYROID DISORDERS

Parathyroid disorders may not show any signs and symptoms in 50% of the cases. However, here are some features of parathyroid disorders.

PRE-OP PREPARATIONS

You will be admitted to the hospital one day before the surgery. You will be asked not to eat or drink anything and you will be kept under observation by our team of experts.

PROCEDURE OF THE SURGERY

The surgery of the parathyroid gland is performed with a small incision on the neck. After the removal of the gland, dissolvable sutures are applied on the incision. These sutures dissolve spontaneously after couple of days. The scar heals slowly.

POST-OPERATIVE MEASURES

Parathyroid hormones play an important role in the body. Removal of parathyroid gland must be followed with deep monitoring. You will be kept at the hospital for 24 hours. During this time, you will be observed closely by the surgeon and will be taken proper care of. The next day after the surgery, you will be able to go home.

FOLLOW UP

The surgeon will prescribe the calcium replacement medications and discharge you from the hospital. He would like to see you 1-2 weeks after the surgery for the follow up.
Remember: A mass or lump in the neck should not be ignored, as it can be indicative of parathyroid cancer.