The parathyroid glands are located behind the thyroid glands in the neck, near the sternal notch. The parathyroid gland can malfunction and start secreting too much parathyroid hormone in a condition known as hyperparathyroidism. The parathyroid glands make parathyroid hormone (PTH), which controls the levels of calcium in the body. Parathyroid glands can also get attacked by cancer cells. Signs and symptoms may include nausea, loss of appetite, muscle pain, and fatigue. There is no medication available to cure parathyroid disease.
Diseases and disorders of the parathyroid are primarily treated with surgery. Parathyroid surgery is also used to treat disorders such as hyperplasia and adenoma removal. The removal of the parathyroid gland is called a parathyroidectomy. In this procedure, the surgeon removes one or all four of the parathyroid glands.
This minimally invasive surgery typically lasts for 30 minutes to an hour accordingly. Dr. Tierney has vast experience with parathyroid gland surgery.