Abstract: Can parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism be carried out as a day-case procedure?

Authors:

Carr ER, Contractor K, Remedios D, Burke M.

Institution:

Department of Endocrine Surgery, Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow, UK.

Source:

J Laryngol Otol. 2006 Nov;120(11):939-41.

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: Surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism has traditionally involved a bilateral neck exploration performed as an in-patient procedure. We present a feasibility study to demonstrate whether, with a focused surgical exploration, the procedure can be carried out as a day case. METHOD: Eighty-seven patients had pre-operative sestamibi and ultrasound scans of the neck. When the results of these scans agreed, a unilateral neck exploration was carried out. RESULTS: Sixty-seven patients received a focused approach parathyroidectomy. Ninety-seven per cent of these patients were normocalcaemic after the first operation. All patients who fitted the day-case criteria left hospital the following morning. DISCUSSION: When pre-operative imaging results agree, a parathyroidectomy can be carried out using a unilateral neck exploration, avoiding the increased risks associated with a bilateral exploration. CONCLUSION: Parathyroidectomy can be safely carried out as a day-case procedure in selected patients.

Keywords:

General Endocrine Surgery Head and Neck Parathyroidectomy