Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy in Birmingham, AL
What is a Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy?
Parathyroidectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to remove the parathyroid glands or one or more parathyroid tumors from your neck.
To better understand what a parathyroidectomy is, you can see the prefix “para,” meaning alongside or next to the thyroid, and “dectomy,” the process of removing something.
Minimally invasive parathyroid surgery uses a very small incision to remove the abnormal parathyroid glands. It is normally a same-day, routine outpatient procedure.
Dr. Justin Malek specializes in performing minimally invasive parathyroidectomy procedures with exceptional precision and care. Using state-of-the-art technology, he ensures that the surgery is both effective and minimally disruptive, allowing for a quicker recovery and reduced scarring. Dr. Malek’s expertise in this technique means you receive targeted treatment with a focus on preserving healthy tissue and optimizing your overall outcomes. Call (205) 595-8985 to schedule a consultation at our general surgery clinic in Birmingham, AL today.
What is a Parathyroidectomy Used For?
You have four parathyroid glands, each about the size of a grain of rice. These glands are located behind the thyroid gland in the neck.
Hormones from the parathyroid glands help regulate blood levels of calcium and other minerals.
A parathyroidectomy can be used for:
- Hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism)
- Parathyroid nodules
- Parathyroid tumors
Parathyroidectomy is the main treatment for patients who have hyperparathyroidism. This is a condition of the parathyroid glands that over secretes parathyroid hormone (PTH), which influences blood calcium levels.
The parathyroid glands can develop benign (or, rarely, malignant) growths that cause overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH). This can impact calcium levels and lead to other problems or conditions.
How is the Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy Performed?
This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. You will be asleep and comfortable during the procedure.
This type of surgery is done by a highly-trained surgeon who will perform tests and imaging prior to the surgery. You can discuss risks and outcomes at the time of your consultation.
When it comes time for your procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision in the skin of the neck, approximately an inch long, to gain access to the thyroid gland and the parathyroid glands behind it.
During the procedure, the surgeon can examine the glands and remove those that are damaged or affected by disease. Most patients have only one abnormal parathyroid gland that needs to be removed, and the other glands are able to remain intact. Board-certified general surgeon Dr. Justin Malek will then close the incision and monitor you as you come out of general anesthesia.
After a parathyroidectomy, you are likely to go home with some calcium supplements until the remaining normal parathyroid glands “wake up” and resume functioning.
Schedule a Consultation in Birmingham AL
If you have more questions about a parathyroidectomy, give Advanced Surgeons, P.C. a call at (205) 595-8985 to see if you are a candidate. Schedule an appointment at our general surgery clinic in Birmingham, AL today.
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