Facing parathyroid surgery (or parathyroidectomy) can be a daunting prospect. It is reassuring to know that outcomes after parathyroidectomy are generally very good and the recovery is relatively quick. It is important however that you discuss the known risks of surgery with an experienced ANZES recognised endocrine surgeon.
Professor Gundara will spend time with you discussing the details of surgery. In broad terms however, there are generally two types of parathyroidectomy operation for pHPT. A minimally invasive/focused operation and a bilateral exploration operation. There are merits for both and decision making regarding the way forward is tailored to the patient and the disease. Both operations can be achieved as day case operations but occasionally the patient is better served by being observed overnight before discharge the following day. Like all surgery, it is not risk free but seeing a high volume sub-specialist in this area can assist in achieving an optimal longer term outcome.
Re-operative surgery (ie. a repeat operation) is thankfully not common, but can occasionally be necessary for this disease. This may be as a result of a failed 1st operation or recurrence of the disease many months or even years after a curative operation. If unfortunate enough to come across this problem it is vitally important that you are seen by an ANZES recognised endocrine surgeon to discuss your options. The possibility of complications is higher in re-operative cases and a surgeon with experience is key to a good outcome.
Follow up generally involves a consultation in the rooms and repeat blood tests. This is to ensure that calcium levels return to normal and the disease remains cured. Additional tests (eg. bone density scan; genetic testing) may also be necessary based on the individual patient’s scenario.
