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Parathyroidectomy-Conventional | Rocky Mountain Pediatric ENT Associates



A parathyroidectomy is a surgery to remove parathyroid glands. There are 4 parathyroid glands located in the neck. The glands make a hormone that balances the level of calcium in the blood.

Parathyroid and Thyroid Glands (Back View) 

The surgery is done to remove one or more abnormal parathyroid glands. The glands may be overactive, or abnormal due to cancer or for other reasons.




Your doctor will:



General anesthesia is used most often. It will block any pain and you will stay asleep through the surgery. The area will be numb but you will be awake.


An incision will be made in the neck. Muscle and other tissue will be moved to locate all the glands. The abnormal gland or glands will then be cut out and removed. A drain may then be placed in the area. This will allow fluids to drain out of the area while you heal. The incision will be closed with stitches.

If all 4 glands were removed, a part of one gland may be placed in a different area of the neck or in the forearm.


20 minutes to several hours, depending on how many glands need to be removed



You may need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days. Your doctor may choose to keep you longer if you have any problems.



After your surgery, the the hospital staff will:


To help your recovery at home:



