Parathyroid auto-transplantation reduces risk of hypoparathyroidism
Permanent hypoparathyroidism is rare after total thyroidectomy when performed by experienced surgeons, with a risk of just 0.5%, according to a study.
The study analyzed data from 1,182 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy.
Temporary hypoparathyroidism, defined by low postoperative parathyroid hormone levels or evidence of hypocalcemia, was observed in 17.4% of patients. However, the incidence of permanent hypoparathyroidism was significantly lower at 0.5%.
Key predictors of permanent hypoparathyroidism included symptomatic temporary hypoparathyroidism and the number of parathyroid glands removed during surgery. Parathyroid auto-transplantation was identified as a critical technique to reduce risk, lowering the odds of permanent hypoparathyroidism by 96%.
Reference
Niu A, Zhou L, Papachristos A, et al. Permanent hypoparathyroidism following total thyroidectomy – Incidence and preventative strategies without imaging adjuncts. Am J Surg. 2025;116196. doi: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2025.116196. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39824725.