A parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or more of the parathyroid glands, which are small glands located behind the thyroid in the neck. These glands regulate the body’s calcium levels by producing a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH).
Most people have four parathyroid glands. Sometimes, one or more of these glands becomes overactive (a condition called hyperparathyroidism) and causes the body to produce too much PTH. This leads to high calcium levels in the blood, which can cause a variety of symptoms and long-term complications.
Parathyroidectomy is a safe and effective treatment for hyperparathyroidism and is performed under general anaesthesia.
Dr Phillips may recommend a parathyroidectomy for patients diagnosed with:
Common symptoms or complications that may lead to surgery include:
Parathyroidectomy is the only curative treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism. Benefits include:
While parathyroid surgery is generally safe, as with any surgery, there are some risks:
Dr Phillips uses careful techniques and may check hormone levels during surgery (intraoperative PTH testing, frozen section histopathology) to minimise these risks and confirm successful removal of the overactive gland(s).
Dr Phillips works closely with several endocrinologists and in some cases, especially if symptoms are mild or surgery carries high risk, alternative options may be considered:
Surgery is typically recommended for patients with clear symptoms or complications from high calcium, or in younger patients at risk of long-term issues.
You may need:
You must not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before surgery. You may have clear fluids up to 2 hours before.
Inform Dr Phillips about all medications you take, especially:
Adjustments may be needed before surgery.
Contact our clinic or seek urgent care if you experience:
Dr Phillips will arrange a follow-up visit within 1–2 weeks to:
Long-term follow-up may be needed in some cases, especially if more than one gland was removed.
Yes – in most cases, only the abnormal gland is removed and the others continue to function normally.
Most people only need short-term supplements. A small number may need long-term treatment if multiple glands were removed.
The neck incision usually heals very well and becomes barely noticeable over time.
Yes – parathyroidectomy is a curative procedure for most cases of primary hyperparathyroidism.
If you’d like to discuss this procedure or explore suitable treatment options, please get in touch with Dr Nicholas Phillips’ clinic.
To book with Dr Phillips, you’ll need a referral from your GP or specialist. Questions? Call our team — we’re happy to help.
