| Parathyroidectomy | |
|---|---|
 Parathyroidectomy for parathyroid adenoma | |
| Specialty | General surgery, endocrine surgery |
| Complications | Hypoparathyroidism |
| Approach | Open |
| Other options | Calcimimetics |
Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one or more of the (usually) four parathyroid glands. This procedure is used to remove an adenoma or hyperplasia of these glands when they are producing excessive parathyroid hormone (PTH): hyperparathyroidism. The glands are usually four in number and located adjacent to the posterior surface of the thyroid gland, but their exact location is variable. When an elevated PTH level is found, a sestamibi scan or an ultrasound may be performed in order to confirm the presence and location of abnormal parathyroid tissue.