What to Expect Before, During & After Parathyroid Surgery: Complete Patient Guide

Parathyroid surgery is one of the most common and effective procedures performed in Endocrine Surgery, especially for patients diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism. At Action Cancer Hospital, highly skilled endocrine surgeons use advanced techniques to remove abnormal parathyroid glands and restore normal calcium balance in the body.

If you or a loved one is preparing for parathyroid surgery, understanding what happens before, during, and after the procedure helps reduce anxiety and promotes smoother recovery. This complete patient guide explains the entire surgical journey in simple, comforting, and informative language.

Understanding Parathyroid Surgery

The parathyroid glands regulate calcium in the body. When one or more glands become overactive, it causes hyperparathyroidism, leading to:

• Weak bones

• Fatigue

• Kidney stones

• Depression

• High calcium levels

Parathyroidectomy—the removal of the overactive gland—is the most effective treatment.

Modern Endocrine Surgery techniques, especially at top centers like Action Cancer Hospital, are minimally invasive, safe, and have excellent success rates.

Before Parathyroid Surgery: What to Expect

1. Detailed Medical Evaluation

Before surgery, your doctor will conduct a thorough assessment, including:

• Blood tests (calcium & PTH levels)

• Ultrasound imaging

• Sestamibi scan

• CT scan or 4D CT (if needed)

These tests help identify the abnormal gland and plan a precise surgical approach.

2. Meeting Your Endocrine Surgeon

During your consultation at Action Cancer Hospital, your surgeon will explain:

• Which gland is overactive

• Type of surgery recommended (minimally invasive or traditional)

• Expected recovery time

• Post-surgery calcium changes

This is the best time to ask questions and share any concerns.

3. Pre-Surgery Instructions

You may be advised to:

• Avoid eating or drinking after midnight before surgery

• Stop blood thinners (after medical approval)

• Inform the team about any allergies or medications

• Arrange someone to accompany you on surgery day

These steps help ensure a smooth operation and quicker recovery.

During Parathyroid Surgery: Step-by-Step Overview

Parathyroidectomy typically takes 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how many glands are affected and whether the surgery is minimally invasive.

1. Anesthesia

The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. You will be asleep and feel no pain.

2. Minimally Invasive Parathyroid Surgery

Most patients qualify for this advanced technique, which involves:

• A tiny incision in the neck (often 2–3 cm)

• Use of high-precision imaging to locate the abnormal gland

• Removal of the affected gland with minimal tissue disruption

This approach offers:

• Less pain

• Smaller scar

• Faster recovery

Action Cancer Hospital specializes in minimally invasive endocrine surgery, ensuring excellent cosmetic and clinical outcomes.

3. Traditional (Open) Surgery

If multiple glands are involved or the abnormal gland is hard to locate, the surgeon may use a slightly larger incision to examine all four parathyroid glands.

4. Intraoperative PTH Monitoring

A key feature of advanced endocrine surgery:

• Surgeons measure PTH levels during surgery

• A 50% drop indicates successful removal

• Ensures accuracy and reduces need for repeat surgery

This technology is available at top endocrine surgery centers like Action Cancer Hospital.

After Parathyroid Surgery: Recovery & Care

Recovery is usually quick and comfortable. Most patients go home the same day or the next morning.

1. Immediate Post-Surgery Experience

You may experience:

• Mild pain or soreness in the neck

• Temporary hoarse voice

• Slight swelling near the incision

These are normal and improve within a few days.

2. Calcium Level Monitoring

After surgery, calcium levels may drop because the body has been used to high levels for a long time.

You may be advised to take:

• Calcium supplements

• Vitamin D

Symptoms of low calcium include:

• Tingling in lips or fingers

• Muscle cramps

• Numbness

If you experience these, inform your doctor immediately.

3. Caring for the Incision

Follow these simple tips:

• Keep the incision clean and dry

• Avoid strenuous activity for a week

• Protect the area from direct sunlight

• Use scar cream if advised

Minimally invasive endocrine surgery leaves a nearly invisible scar.

4. Voice Changes Are Normal

Temporary voice hoarseness occurs because the vocal cords may be irritated during surgery. This usually resolves in a few days or weeks.

5. Returning Home & Daily Activities

Most patients can:

• Resume light activities in 2–3 days

• Return to work in 1 week

• Exercise after 10–14 days (after doctor’s approval)

Long-Term Benefits of Parathyroid Surgery

Successful surgery offers life-changing improvements:

• Normal calcium levels

• Better mood & mental clarity

• Stronger bones

• Reduced risk of kidney stones

• Improved energy

• Better overall health

At Action Cancer Hospital, endocrine surgeons focus on long-term wellness and complete patient support.

Why Choose Action Cancer Hospital for Parathyroid Surgery?

• Expert Endocrine Surgery Specialists

• Minimally Invasive Techniques

• Advanced Imaging & PTH Monitoring

• High Success Rates

• State-of-the-Art Operation Theatres

• Personalized Patient Care

Your safety, comfort, and recovery are always top priorities.

Conclusion

Parathyroid surgery is a safe, effective, and transformative procedure. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after surgery, you can approach the experience with confidence. With expert endocrine surgeons and world-class facilities, Action Cancer Hospital ensures every patient receives superior care at every step.

If you're experiencing symptoms of hyperparathyroidism or have been advised to undergo surgery, consult the endocrine surgery team at Action Cancer Hospital for accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and compassionate support.