There are four parathyroid glands located in the neck, just behind the thyroid. These glands and the thyroid are both essential parts of the endocrine system. While they share very similar names, they have completely separate functions in the body. The parathyroid glands are very small—typically about the size of an apple seed—and they are responsible for regulating the levels of calcium in the body.
Because calcium plays so many roles in the human body, from the building blocks of the skeletal system to the contraction of muscles, to the communication of nerves, even a small imbalance of this mineral can cause widespread health issues. Most commonly, calcium imbalances related to parathyroid disorders are caused by an over-activity of these glands due to the growth of non-cancerous tumors, which is known as hyperparathyroidism.
Hyperparathyroidism results from the overactivity of the parathyroid glands, leading to excessive production of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Several factors contribute to the development of this condition:
Accurate diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism involves comprehensive assessments. Healthcare professionals employ the following methods:
Early and precise diagnosis facilitates prompt intervention, optimizing outcomes for individuals with hyperparathyroidism.
Because hyperparathyroidism is often a result of a benign tumor of the parathyroid glands, parathyroid surgery is often necessary to address the condition. Unlike an overactive thyroid that can be treated with medication and other conservative treatments, the parathyroid glands will not return to normal function until tumors have been removed.
Fortunately, modern surgical techniques have facilitated procedures that leave minimal scarring, with reduced damage to healthy tissues for more successful surgical outcomes. Our parathyroid surgeon Dr. Cohen and his team specialize in minimally invasive parathyroid surgery. Unlike traditional parathyroid surgery, you don’t need to worry about an unsightly scar across your neck.
For the last few years, MIP has become the preferred method of removing tumors on the parathyroid glands. The surgery has a high success rate and a much lower complication rate when compared to traditional parathyroid surgery.
The surgery involves removing tumors from the impacted parathyroid gland. Patients who have parathyroid disease typically only have tumors on one of the glands. In the past, surgery involved opening the neck to expose all four of the glands, but, with MIP, a very small incision (less than an inch!) is used to remove the tumor. With minimally invasive surgery, there’s less risk of complication, a reduced recovery period, and a nearly invisible scar.
More importantly, our team of world-renowned surgeons have saved countless lives, and have enabled countless more to live healthy, happy lives.
Surgery Group LA is a team of professional and board-licensed surgeons, who specialize of their respective fields. The institution’s project to offer sufferers with advanced and complete surgical care.
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