Parathyroidectomy
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2025-11-27
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Open Access Atlas of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Operative Surgery
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University of Cape Town
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Abstract
Parathyroidectomy is indicated for primary hyperparathyroidism and for secondary hyperparathyroidism refractory to medical treatment. A detailed knowledge of parathyroid anatomy is essential to perform parathyroidectomy safely and effectively. Particular attention must be paid to identifying ectopic or unusually located glands and to avoid injury to important local structures, particularly the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN).There are typically four parathyroid glands; supernumerary glands and <4 glands do occur. The parathyroids are generally located symmetrically in the neck in close proximity to the thyroid gland.
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Reference:
Panieri, E. & Fagan, J. 2025. Parathyroidectomy. In Open Access Atlas of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Operative Surgery. J. Fagan, Ed.Cape Town, South Africa: University of Cape Town. 15. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/43508 .