Fewer adverse events after reoperative parathyroidectomy associated with initial minimally invasive parathyroidectomy

Abstract

Background: This study compared reoperative complication rates after initial minimally invasive parathyroidectomy and standard cervical exploration.

Methods: Records from patients who underwent 1 reoperative parathyroidectomy at a single institution (1998 to 2012) were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: Seventy-seven patients were included; 74% underwent initial standard cervical exploration. Preoperative and operative characteristics were similar between groups; 74% underwent focused, unilateral reoperation. A significantly higher rate of postoperative complications occurred in the initial standard cervical exploration group (42% vs 15%, P = .03) that could not be explained by differences in the rates of symptomatic hypocalcemia (P = .5). The type of prior parathyroidectomy was significantly associated with postoperative complications (odds ratio 4.1, 95% confidence interval 1.1 to 15.7, P = .04). In a multivariable logistic regression model that included body mass index, type of operation (for initial and reoperation), and initial operation performed prereferral as covariates, type of prior parathyroidectomy remained a significant predictor of postoperative complications.

Conclusion: Higher rates of postoperative sequelae after initial standard cervical exploration should be considered before performing routine 4-gland exploration.

Keywords: Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy; Persistent or recurrent hyperparathyroidism; Primary hyperparathyroidism; Reoperative parathyroidectomy; Standard cervical exploration.