Parathyroidectomy is a surgery to remove a parathyroid gland. Kids with high levels of parathyroid hormone or parathyroid cancer may need this surgery.

The parathyroids are four tiny glands that make parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH controls the amount of calcium in the blood. These glands lie close to the thyroid. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck. There are two parathyroid glands on each side.

The surgeon cut the skin and moved aside neck muscles and nerves to reach the parathyroid glands. Because the nerves that control the vocal cords are close to the parathyroids, a special breathing tube was used during surgery to monitor and protect these nerves. Mild hoarseness is common for a couple of days after surgery.

Skin numbness near the incision is also common. Mild swelling should start to improve about 2 days after the procedure. It may be uncomfortable for your child to swallow, but this will get better with time.

PTH will quickly return to normal after the surgeon takes out one or more of the parathyroid glands. The surgeon will remove only the glands that make too much PTH. After surgery, health care providers will check calcium levels in the blood.

• The incision will have steri-strips, a special tape that helps hold the skin together. The steri-strips will fall off on their own. There is no bandage or other covering over the incision.
• It is OK to shower the day after surgery. The area can get wet — but not soaked — for 1 week. Gently pat the neck with warm, soapy water on a washcloth. 
• Give your child medicines as prescribed by the health care providers:
  • Calcium supplements are needed until the health care providers are sure that the remaining parathyroid glands are making enough PTH. This usually takes 1-2 weeks. 
  • Give calcium with meals.
  • Calcitriol (a form of vitamin D) helps the body absorb calcium. So give vitamin D every day with the calcium.
• Your child should take it easy for the first week after surgery. Most children take up to 1 week out of school, but can return sooner if they feel better and can participate.
• No recess, gym, or sports for 2 weeks after surgery.
• Remind your child to avoid straining (like lifting a heavy school bag).

Your child has:

• a rapid increase in neck swelling
• significant bruising or skin color changes around the neck
• discharge from the incision
• a fever above 100.4°F (38°C)

Your child:

• has tingling around the lips or fingers
• has stomach pain or cramps
• feels like the heart is racing, is shaking, or feels anxious