Recognizing the Symptoms
Parathyroid glands regulate calcium levels in the body, and when they become overactive, symptoms can appear across multiple systems. Patients may experience thinning hair, bone loss, fractures, kidney stones, acid reflux, abdominal pain, joint discomfort, high blood pressure, and fatigue. Anxiety, irritability, or other mood changes are also common. Because these symptoms are often vague or misattributed, early diagnosis is especially important.
How Parathyroid Disease Is Diagnosed
The most accurate way to locate an overactive parathyroid gland is with a Sestamibi Scan, a specialized nuclear medicine test. Diagnosis also includes:
Blood tests showing elevated calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH)
Imaging such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI to locate enlarged glands
These tools help confirm the diagnosis and guide the surgical plan.
Treatment Options
Surgery is the only cure for parathyroid disease. Removing the overactive gland allows the remaining glands to resume normal function. During the brief period of adjustment, patients may take calcium supplements to support healthy levels.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
When the overactive gland is clearly located using a Sestamibi Scan, minimally invasive surgery is possible. This involves:
A small, one-inch incision
Local anesthesia only
A quick, 30-minute procedure using a handheld probe
Same-day discharge, with most patients resuming normal activities the next day
This advanced technique is offered by Dr. Krevitt and the surgical team at NYOG, using the latest technology for fast, effective recovery.
Traditional Surgical Approach
If imaging does not clearly locate the gland, a more extensive bilateral neck exploration may be necessary:
A larger incision (~4 cm) under general anesthesia
Surgery lasting 1–2 hours
Intraoperative rapid parathyroid hormone testing used to confirm removal
Overnight hospital stay for observation
Our surgeons tailor every operation to the patient’s needs and use the most effective approach to ensure a full and lasting cure.
