Removal of Parathyroid Glands Parathyroidectomy is surgery to
remove hyperactive parathyroid glands. Parathyroid disease is
the most common cause of elevated blood calcium levels in
adults. Elevated calcium levels can lead to kidney stones and
other disturbing symptoms. Most parathyroid disease is due to a
benign tumor of a single parathyroid gland that produces excess
parathyroid hormone (PTH). WHAT ARE PARATHYROID GLANDS? There
are typically four parathyroid glands (two pairs) that are
located behind the thyroid lobes in the neck. The parathyroid
glands secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH) that regulates the
calcium level in the body. Parathyroid hormone signals the
release of calcium from the bones and increases calcium
absorption from the intestines. The correct secretion of the
parathyroid hormone maintains a normal level of calcium in the
bloodstream to ensure the normal function of muscles and the
normal conduction of electrical currents along the nerves. If
one or more of the parathyroid glands secretes