The parathyroids are typically four glands near the thyroid gland that are critical for calcium metabolism. When the glands produce an overabundance of parathyroid hormone, the result is too much calcium, a condition known as hyperparathyroidism. This is often caused by an adenoma, a type of benign tumor. Minor cases may be dealt with medically, but parathyroid surgery is often recommended.
Whether to proceed with parathyroid surgery depends on a number of factors including how much calcium is in the blood and the extent of symptoms. Once the diagnosis is made, imaging tests will typically be performed to try to localize the source of the problem.
Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, and frequently patients can go home day of surgery.
All surgeries involve some degree of risk, such as bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. Parathyroid surgery could cause injury to the thyroid gland and vocal cords or cause breathing problems. In addition, you could be at risk for hypocalcemia, a condition in which calcium levels drop too low. Fortunately, this is easily treatable.
Call Texas ENT & Allergy at (877) 377-4368 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
