This comprehensive guide provides a comprehensive overview of parathyroidectomy, a surgical procedure used to treat hyperparathyroidism. It covers the causes and symptoms of hyperparathyroidism, the types of parathyroidectomy, pre
Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one or more of the (usually) four parathyroid glands. This procedure is used to remove an adenoma or hyperplasia of these glands when they are producing excessive parathyroid hormone (PTH), a condition termed hyperparathyroidism. The glands are usually four in number and located adjacent to the posterior surface of the thyroid gland, but their exact location is variable. When an elevated PTH level is found, a sestamibi scan or an ultrasound may be performed in order to confirm the presence and location of abnormal parathyroid tissue.