Best Doctors for Parathyroidectomy in Chennai

Untreated hyperparathyroidism can lead to a condition called hypercalcemic nephropathy, which can contribute to kidney damage or kidney stones. However, with appropriate treatment and management, the risk of kidney failure due to hyperparathyroidism is low.

Surgery is currently the only definitive cure for primary hyperparathyroidism, which is caused by an overactive parathyroid gland. Medications may be used to manage symptoms or control calcium levels temporarily, but they do not address the underlying cause and are not considered to be a cure.

While parathyroid tumours are generally not cancerous (malignant), in rare cases, they can be cancerous (parathyroid carcinoma).

Despite a successful parathyroidectomy, blood calcium levels may remain high temporarily. This is often due to a temporary rebound effect, where the remaining parathyroid glands overcompensate for the removed gland(s). However, this usually resolves on its own over time as the remaining glands regulate your calcium levels.

The eligibility for a parathyroidectomy depends on factors such as your symptoms, blood calcium levels, and the underlying cause of hyperparathyroidism. Generally, individuals with persistent hypercalcemia or major symptoms are considered eligible for the surgery.

A parathyroidectomy carries some risks and potential side effects. These can include temporary hoarseness or changes in voice, low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia), bleeding, infection, and damage to nearby structures such as nerves or blood vessels.

The duration of a parathyroidectomy can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the surgical technique used. On average, the procedure takes a few hours. However, it is important to note that the duration may be longer if additional procedures or explorations are required.

Before undergoing a parathyroidectomy, your surgeon will provide specific instructions on preparing for the surgery. This may include fasting for a certain period before the surgery, stopping certain medications that may interfere with the procedure, and undergoing pre-operative tests to assess your overall health.

After a parathyroidectomy, you will be closely monitored in the recovery area before being discharged. Your surgeon will provide instructions on looking after your incision, managing any pain or discomfort, and scheduling follow-up appointments. It is important to follow these instructions and take any prescribed medications as directed.

The success rate of a parathyroidectomy is high, with most patients experiencing a considerable improvement in their symptoms and blood calcium levels returning to normal. The success rate varies based on factors like the underlying cause of hyperparathyroidism and the surgeon’s expertise.

The recovery time for a parathyroidectomy varies from patient to patient, although most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks. However, it may take several weeks for some individuals to fully recover and regain their energy levels.

There are three main types of parathyroidectomy. The first type is minimally invasive parathyroidectomy. Before this surgery, a shot of a very small amount of radioactive tracer will be given. This highlights the diseased glands. Your surgeon will then use a special probe, such as a Geiger counter, to locate the parathyroid gland. A small cut of 1-2 inches or 2.5-5 cm will be made on one side of your neck, and the diseased gland will be removed through it. This procedure takes about 1 hour. The second is video-assisted parathyroidectomy. Two small cuts will be made in your neck for the instruments and a camera. The camera will be used to view the area, and the diseased glands will be removed. The third type is endoscopic parathyroidectomy. Two or three small cuts will be made in the front of your neck and another will be made at the top of your collarbone. This will reduce scarring and pain and shorten the recovery time. The cuts will be less than 2 inches or 5 cm. The diseased parathyroid glands are removed in the same way as that in video-assisted parathyroidectomy.

A parathyroidectomy is performed by an endocrine surgeon or general surgeon.