Information Patient | Chirurgie des glandes parathyroïdes

Prof. Benjamin LALLEMANT - www.orl-information.fr In this video for patients, we explain how parathyroid gland removal surgery, or "parathyroidectomy" in medical terms, is performed. Parathyroidectomy is a procedure that removes one or more parathyroid glands. The parathyroids are endocrine glands. They produce a hormone called "parathyroid hormone," which regulates the body's calcium and phosphorus levels. There are usually four of them, arranged in pairs behind the thyroid gland, on either side of the trachea. Why remove the parathyroid glands? Sometimes one of these glands produces an excessive amount of parathyroid hormone, causing an abnormally high blood calcium level. This is called "hyperparathyroidism." This hyperparathyroidism can cause complications such as osteoporosis or kidney stones. When the diseased gland is clearly identified by imaging, which generally combines ultrasound and scintigraphy, the surgeon may suggest removing the affected gland. More rarely, this excessive production of parathyroid hormone can be caused by several glands simultaneously, particularly in patients with kidney failure or in the context of more exceptional genetic abnormalities. How is the procedure performed? The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, but locoregional anesthesia may be offered. The surgeon removes the parathyroid gland(s) through an incision hidden in a skin fold located at the base of the neck. When the diseased parathyroid tissue is clearly identified, the procedure rarely lasts more than 30 minutes. When this identification is uncertain or when several glands are involved, the surgeon must explore the surgical bed more widely, which prolongs the procedure. Once the procedure is completed, the skin is closed with an intradermal suture or surgical glue. What are the postoperative consequences? The postoperative course is straightforward and usually allows patients to return home the same day. What are the risks of the procedure? Any procedure on the human body, even when performed under optimal conditions of skill and safety, carries a risk of complications. There are two main complications to be noted in parathyroid surgery: First, a drop in blood calcium levels. This is quite rare and can cause cramps and tingling in the face, hands, and feet. The administration of calcium and vitamin D tablets can correct this problem, which then resolves quickly. Second, voice disorders. They can appear after surgery and are related to the dissection of the nerves responsible for vocal cord mobility. They are uncommon and most often resolve spontaneously within 2 to 3 months following the procedure. Prof. Benjamin LALLEMANT ENT & MFC Department - Head and Neck Surgery Nîmes University Hospital, France www.orl-information.fr -------------------------------------- Professional production by CINEREGARD https://www.cineregard.fr/ [email protected] -------------------------------------- ✔Subscribe to the ORL-Information channel:    / orlinformation   ✔Find us online: https://www.orl-information.fr @Information and Prevention in Medicine | How to maintain your health? How to prevent disease, treat yourself, and recover.