Table of contents:
- Definition
- What are the parathyroid glands?
- When do I need to have a parathyroidectomy?
- Precautions & warnings
- What should I know before undergoing parathyroidectomy?
- Process
- What should I do before undergoing parathyroidectomy?
- How is the parathyroidectomy process?
- What should I do after undergoing parathyroidectomy?
- Complications
- What complications can occur?
Definition
What are the parathyroid glands?
Normally, humans have four parathyroid glands in the neck. The main function of this gland is to control the balance of calcium in the blood by producing parathyroid hormone (PTH). Problems can occur when one or more of the parathyroid glands are overactive, causing an increase in calcium levels. The most common symptom is bone pain.
When do I need to have a parathyroidectomy?
Parathyroidectomy is performed when high calcium levels cause hyperparathyroidism (such as kidney stones, osteoporosis, or fractures), or if the patient is relatively young. After undergoing parathyroidectomy, the risk of permanent damage to the bones, kidneys or heart can be reduced.
Precautions & warnings
What should I know before undergoing parathyroidectomy?
The success rate of surgery depends on various factors, for example the patient's response to surgery, the anesthesia given, and the postoperative healing process itself. Hyperparathyroidism may not be cured and the patient has postoperative complications. In addition, the results of surgery also depend on the patient's medical condition before the operation.
Process
What should I do before undergoing parathyroidectomy?
In the preparation stage for surgery, make sure you tell your doctor about your health condition, any medications you are taking, or any allergies you have. The anesthetist will explain the anesthesia procedure and give further instructions. In general, you are required to fast for six hours before the operation is performed. However, you may be allowed to drink beverages such as coffee a few hours before the surgery.
How is the parathyroidectomy process?
Parathyroidectomy is performed under general anesthesia. The operation usually takes about an hour, during which the surgeon will make an incision in the neck in one of the folds of skin to remove the enlarged parathyroid gland.
What should I do after undergoing parathyroidectomy?
You can go home after one to two days after surgery. The wound will probably heal after two weeks and you can get back to work and activities. Regular exercise has also been shown to speed up the healing process. But before deciding to exercise, you should ask a doctor for advice. It is possible that normal glands that were not removed during surgery become active at a later date.
Complications
What complications can occur?
Every procedure has its own risks, including parathyroidectomy. The surgeon will explain all kinds of risks that may occur after surgery. Common complications that can occur after surgery are the aftereffects of anesthesia, excessive bleeding, or the spread of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or DVT).
For parathyroidectomy, complications can include:
voice change
difficulty breathing
decreased calcium levels
operation failure
You can reduce your risk of complications by following your doctor's directions before surgery, such as fasting and stopping certain medications.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
