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Parathyroidectomy

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Parathyroidectomy

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Parathyroidectomy

Definition:

Parathyroidectomy is surgery to remove parathyroid glands or parathyroid tumors.

Alternative Names:
Removal of parathyroid gland; Parathyroid gland removal

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Description:

Parathyroidectomy is performed while the patient is under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). An incision is made in the neck just under the Adam's apple. The surgeon locates the four parathyroid glands.

The particular problem or disease will determine how many of the parathyroid glands are removed. Usually, some parathyroid tissue is left behind to help prevent hypoparathyroidism (low levels of parathyroid hormone).

Indications:

Parathyroidectomy is recommended when one or more parathyroid glands are producing excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone. This condition is called hyperparathyroidism.

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