thyroidectomy Thyroidectomy or **thyroid surgery** is a common procedure that involves removing all or part of the thyroid gland. This gland is located in the neck and is responsible for the production of hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. During thyroid surgery, it is very important to preserve the parathyroid glands. Parathyroid glands play an important role in regulating calcium levels in the body. Damage or unintentional removal of these glands during surgery can cause a person to have complications that we will discuss below. ### **What are the parathyroid glands and what is their role?** Parathyroid glands are four small endocrine glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. They produce a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH) that regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. Maintaining proper calcium levels is important for bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. An imbalance in the body's calcium level can lead to health problems. Disorders of the parathyroid gland can cause a decrease or increase in calcium levels. Hypoparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands do not produce enough PTH. While hyperparathyroidism occurs when these glands produce too much parathyroid hormone. ### **Effects of damage to the parathyroid glands in thyroidectomy** During thyroid surgery, it is very important to preserve the parathyroid glands. Because these glands can be easily damaged or accidentally removed during surgery. If the parathyroid glands are damaged or removed, it leads to a condition called hypoparathyroidism. This condition occurs when there is not enough PTH in the blood to regulate calcium levels. As a result, the person suffers from hypoparathyroidism. Symptoms of hypoparathyroidism include: - Muscle cramps - Irregular heartbeat Tingling and tingling of hands and feet - Convulsions - and… ### **The importance of preserving the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery** It is important not to damage the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery. Because it can help prevent surgical complications and improve its results. Studies have shown that patients who have preserved their parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery are less likely to develop hypoparathyroidism. Also, their surgical results are better and they have recovered faster. In addition, preservation of the parathyroid glands can help reduce the need for calcium and vitamin D supplements after surgery. As a result, preserving the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery is vital to maintain proper levels of calcium in the body and prevent complications such as hypoparathyroidism. There are several techniques that can help the surgeon identify and preserve the parathyroid glands during surgery. If you are considering thyroid surgery, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of preserving your parathyroid glands with your surgeon. ### **Identification of parathyroid glands in thyroid surgery** Preservation of the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery can be challenging. The dimensions of the parathyroid glands are very small and are close to the size of a grain of rice. Also, the location of these glands is close to the thyroid gland. However, there are several techniques that can be used to help identify and preserve the parathyroid glands. One of these techniques is called intraoperative nerve monitoring. This involves placing electrodes on the nerves that control the parathyroid glands and monitoring the nerve's function during surgery. This can help the surgeon identify the parathyroid glands and avoid damaging them. The more experienced and skilled the thyroid surgeon is in surgery, the lower the chance of damage to this gland. ### **What is a parathyroid graft?** A parathyroid transplant involves removing a small piece of the parathyroid gland and transplanting it to another location in the neck. This can help preserve the function of the parathyroid gland if it is accidentally damaged or removed during surgery. If you want to read about the services provided in the office of Dr. Ahmad Fanai**, thyroid and parathyroid surgeon**, click on its link. You can also contact us at **contact** for appointment or consultation. **Read more:** How is hypoparathyroidism treated?