The parathyroid glands are four small glands, each about the size of a grain of rice, located behind or near the thyroid gland. Despite their proximity to the thyroid, their functions are entirely different.

These glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood and bones. Calcium is essential for nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and bone strength.

When one or more glands produce too much PTH, calcium levels rise abnormally — a condition known as hyperparathyroidism. Over time, this can lead to serious health issues such as:

• Weak and brittle bones (osteoporosis)

• Kidney stones

• Muscle weakness and fatigue

• Abdominal pain

• Depression and cognitive changes

• Frequent urination and dehydration

If left untreated, chronic hyperparathyroidism can cause irreversible organ damage.

What Is Parathyroidectomy?

A parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or more overactive parathyroid glands. The goal is to restore normal calcium levels in the blood and prevent complications caused by prolonged hyperparathyroidism.

Depending on the patient’s condition, the surgery may involve:

1. Focused (Minimally Invasive) Parathyroidectomy:
   The surgeon removes only the affected gland(s) using a small incision guided by imaging and intraoperative monitoring.

2. Bilateral Exploration:
   All four glands are examined, and only the abnormal ones are removed.

3. Subtotal Parathyroidectomy:
   Three and a half glands are removed, leaving a small portion of one gland to maintain hormonal balance.

4. Total Parathyroidectomy:
   All glands are removed, often in cases of secondary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism (usually in patients with chronic kidney disease).

Conditions That Require Parathyroidectomy

Parathyroidectomy is primarily performed to treat:

• Primary Hyperparathyroidism:
  Caused by a benign tumor (adenoma) in one of the glands leading to excess PTH production.

• Secondary Hyperparathyroidism:
  A result of chronic kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency, leading to prolonged stimulation of the parathyroid glands.

• Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism:
  Persistent overactivity of the glands even after kidney transplant or treatment of underlying causes.

• Parathyroid Cancer:
  A rare but serious condition where malignant cells form in the parathyroid tissue.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for Surgery

Common symptoms that may indicate hyperparathyroidism include:

• Chronic fatigue or weakness

• Bone and joint pain

• Fragile or easily fractured bones

• Kidney stones or frequent urination

• Depression, anxiety, or confusion

• Abdominal pain and loss of appetite

• Muscle cramps and numbness

If these symptoms are combined with high calcium levels in the blood, a parathyroid evaluation is necessary.

Pre-Surgery Diagnosis and Preparation

Before recommending surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is performed, including:

• Blood Tests: To measure calcium and PTH levels.

• Urine Tests: To check calcium excretion.

• Bone Density Scan (DEXA): To assess bone health.

• Ultrasound or Sestamibi Scan: To locate the overactive gland(s).

• 4D CT Scan or MRI (if needed): For more precise localization.

Patients are advised to:

• Stop blood thinners before surgery.

• Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours prior to the procedure.

• Discuss all medications and health conditions with the surgical team.

At One Life Medical Tourism, all diagnostic and preoperative evaluations are coordinated efficiently to ensure accurate diagnosis and safe preparation.

The Parathyroidectomy Procedure – Step by Step

The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, though in some minimally invasive cases, local anesthesia with sedation may be used.

1. Incision:

A small incision (2–3 cm) is made in the lower neck, often in a natural skin crease for minimal visible scarring.

2. Identification of the Glands:

Using imaging guidance and intraoperative nerve monitoring, the surgeon locates the overactive parathyroid gland(s).

3. Removal of Abnormal Glands:

The diseased gland(s) are carefully removed while preserving normal glands and nearby nerves (especially the recurrent laryngeal nerve that controls vocal cords).

4. Intraoperative PTH Monitoring:

PTH levels are checked during surgery to confirm successful removal of the overactive tissue. A significant drop in PTH indicates effective surgery.

5. Closure:

The incision is closed with fine sutures or surgical glue, resulting in a barely noticeable scar.

The surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours, and most patients can go home within 24–48 hours.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Care

Recovery after parathyroidectomy is usually smooth and quick.

Immediate Postoperative Care:

• Mild sore throat or neck stiffness for a few days.

• Temporary hoarseness due to nerve irritation (usually resolves).

• Monitoring of calcium levels to prevent hypocalcemia.

Recovery Tips:

• Take calcium supplements as prescribed.

• Keep the head elevated to reduce swelling.

• Avoid strenuous activities for 1–2 weeks.

• Attend follow-up visits for calcium and PTH monitoring.

Most patients return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks after surgery.

Benefits of Parathyroidectomy

• Restores Normal Calcium Levels: Eliminates hypercalcemia and its symptoms.

• Improves Bone Health: Reverses bone loss and reduces fracture risk.

• Boosts Energy and Mood: Patients often experience improved mental clarity and energy.

• Prevents Kidney Damage: Reduces recurrence of kidney stones.

• Long-Term Cure: Provides permanent relief from hyperparathyroidism in over 95% of cases.

Possible Risks and Complications

Although parathyroidectomy is highly safe, potential risks include:

• Temporary low calcium levels (hypocalcemia)

• Voice hoarseness (due to nerve irritation)

• Bleeding or infection (rare)

• Scarring (minimal with modern techniques)

At One Life Medical Tourism, we ensure that all procedures are performed by expert surgeons using state-of-the-art technology to minimize risks and ensure the best outcomes.

Cost of Parathyroidectomy in India

India offers world-class surgical expertise at highly affordable costs compared to Western countries.

Approximate cost range:
₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000 (USD $1,200 – $3,000) depending on:

• Hospital and city

• Type of surgery (minimally invasive vs. traditional)

• Surgeon’s experience

• Length of hospital stay and post-operative care

This cost includes surgery, anesthesia, hospital charges, and follow-up consultations.

At One Life Medical Tourism, we provide complete transparency in pricing and personalized packages that include travel assistance, accommodation, and care coordination.

Why Choose India for Parathyroidectomy?

India is a top destination for endocrine and head & neck surgeries due to:

• Highly experienced surgeons with global training.

• Minimally invasive surgical options with excellent success rates.

• Affordable treatment packages without compromising quality.

• World-class hospitals equipped with advanced technology.

• Comprehensive care for international patients through One Life Medical Tourism.

Why Choose One Life Medical Tourism?

At One Life Medical Tourism, we specialize in connecting international patients with the best doctors and hospitals in India for endocrine and general surgeries like parathyroidectomy.

Our services include:

• Free consultation and treatment cost estimate

• Selection of top-rated surgeons and hospitals

• Medical visa assistance and travel coordination

• Airport pickup and local transportation

• Personalized care coordination throughout your stay

• Post-surgery follow-up and recovery support

We ensure every patient receives not just treatment, but comfort, compassion, and clarity from the beginning to the end of their medical journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is parathyroidectomy a major surgery?
It is a delicate but commonly performed surgery, considered safe and minimally invasive in most cases.

2. How do I know if I need parathyroid surgery?
If you have persistently high calcium and PTH levels along with symptoms like fatigue or kidney stones, surgery may be necessary.

3. Will I need medication after surgery?
Temporary calcium supplements may be needed. Long-term hormone therapy is rarely required.

4. How soon will I feel better after surgery?
Many patients notice improved energy and mood within days of surgery, with bone and kidney health improving over time.

5. Will the scar be visible?
Modern surgical techniques leave minimal scarring that fades over time.

6. Can hyperparathyroidism recur after surgery?
Recurrence is rare, especially when performed by experienced surgeons.

7. How long do I need to stay in India for treatment?
International patients usually stay for 7–10 days including pre-surgery evaluation and post-surgery follow-up.

Parathyroidectomy is a safe, effective, and life-changing procedure for patients suffering from hyperparathyroidism and related calcium imbalances. It not only restores physical health but also enhances energy, mood, and overall quality of life.

At One Life Medical Tourism, we make access to world-class parathyroid surgery in India effortless. With expert surgeons, top-tier hospitals, transparent pricing, and end-to-end care coordination, we ensure that every patient receives the best possible outcome in a comfortable and stress-free environment.