• M Doulaptsi, D Ierodiakonou, E Prokopakis, N Stanitsa, A Rogdakis, and A Karatzanis.
• Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Crete School of Medicine, Heraklion, Greece.
• Hippokratia. 2020 Apr 1; 24 (2): 72-76.

BackgroundIncidental parathyroidectomy during total thyroidectomy may occur even in the most experienced hands. This study aims to assess the incidence, risk factors, and impact of incidental parathyroidectomy on this very targeted group of patients.MethodsThree hundred and four consecutive cases undergoing total thyroidectomy in a tertiary referral center were prospectively studied. Based on the histopathology report, incidental parathyroidectomy was assessed in relation to postoperative transient/permanent hypocalcemia. Demographic, clinical, and histological data were analyzed.ResultsThe overall incidence of unintentional removal of parathyroid glands during total thyroidectomy was 35.5 %. Indicators were the postoperative hypocalcemia, the percent change of parathormone serum levels, and the presence of lymph nodes in the histopathology report. Patients with incidental parathyroidectomy exhibited a higher incidence of transient hypocalcemia and hypoparathyroidism postoperatively.ConclusionsIncidental parathyroidectomy is associated with transient hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy. Even single parathyroid in the histopathology specimen may be sufficient for influencing postoperative PTH levels and calcium. Every effort should be made by surgeons to identify and protect all parathyroid glands successfully. HIPPOKRATIA 2020, 24(2): 72-76.Copyright 2020, Hippokratio General Hospital of Thessaloniki.

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