The parathyroid glands are found at the front of the neck, outside of the thyroid gland. They are responsible for controlling the level of calcium in the blood. When there is too much calcium, patients can experience decreased alertness, fatigue, muscle weakness, and kidney stones, among other symptoms. 

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Your Parathyroid Surgery

At SFENTA, our providers will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to ensure that surgery is the best treatment option for you. If our providers feel that surgery is the right step, it will be scheduled at our surgical center. 

An incision will be made beneath the neck during the procedure to give the surgeon access to the parathyroid glands. The incision location is well-placed so that scarring won’t be noticeable. Next, the surgeon will remove either a portion or the entirety of the glands and close the incision. 

Conditions Treated by Parathyroidectomy

The primary condition treated by parathyroid surgery is hyperparathyroidism. Four parathyroid glands create parathyroid hormone (PTH). This hormone controls the levels of calcium in the body. If the parathyroid gland becomes overactive, the amount of calcium in the blood increases, leading to unwanted symptoms, including frequent urination and the bones thinning early.

Benefits of Surgery

For those with hyperparathyroidism, surgery is an effective treatment method. If the glands are entirely removed, your calcium balance should return to normal levels. Surgery can also help prevent the long-term effects of hyperparathyroidism and increased calcium levels. The incision used for the surgery is minor and well-concealed beneath the neck. Your surgeon will strategically place the incision in a location that ensures minimal scarring or cosmetic impact.

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About SFENTA

SFENTA is South Florida’s premier destination for ENT care and state-of-the-art treatment. For over 30 years, we’ve been providing patients with comprehensive care that is personalized to their unique symptoms. 

Our goal is to provide each patient with:

Patient-Centered Care

Our providers take the time to listen to your concerns, ensuring your needs receive the attention that each issue deserves.

Continuity of Care

Our physicians believe in finding long-term care solutions that address each of the symptoms that are impacting your life.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

We’ve built a provider network staffed with professionals from all corners of ENT care. This ensures you’re always seeing a provider who is experienced in your specific area of concern.

The Security of a Community staple

SFENTA has become part of the South Florida community, so you can always rest assured that we’ll be there for you.

Who is a Candidate for Surgery?

In order to determine if you are eligible for surgery, a SFENTA provider will perform an evaluation. This will include reviewing your medical history, examining the parathyroid, and a discussion of your symptoms. 

The primary candidates for parathyroidectomy are those who have hyperparathyroidism and face challenges in their daily activities due to the side effects. 

The Parathyroidectomy Experience

The surgical process begins with general anesthesia. This helps patients experience minimal discomfort and stay relaxed during the surgery. The surgeon will then make a small incision, roughly 2 to 3 millimeters, under the neck. Depending on your symptoms, the surgeon may then remove all or a portion of the glands. After this, the incision will be closed.

Some patients may require an overnight stay to monitor their recovery. After this, patients can return home for the remainder of their recovery.

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FAQs

Does the surgery require an overnight stay?

For some patients, an overnight stay will be necessary to ensure the recovery process begins smoothly. Your provider will be able to discuss the details of your recovery at your pre-operative appointment.

I have hyperparathyroidism. Is surgery my only option?

While there may be other treatments available, surgery is the most common method for treatment. Surgery provides patients with lasting relief that can be difficult to find through other treatment methods. A SFENTA provider can evaluate your symptoms and discuss your available options.

Does SFENTA accept insurance?

Yes. South Florida ENT Associates is proud to accept most forms of insurance. Contact our office to find out which forms of insurance are accepted, or if a specific treatment is covered.

With 37 convenient locations across the South Florida area, we’re never far away.

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