Parathyroidectomy

Alternative names:

parathyroid gland removal; removal of parathyroid gland

Definition:

Surgery to remove parathyroid glands or tumors.

Description:

While the child is deep asleep and pain-free (using general anesthesia), an incision is made in the neck just under the Adam's apple. The four parathyroid glands are located. For partial parathyroidectomy, three of the glands are removed, leaving one to help prevent hypoparathyroidism. For a total parathyroidectomy, all four glands are removed. The incision is then closed.

Indications:

Parathyroidectomy is recommended when the parathyroid glands produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone (hyperparathyroidism).