Our Summary

This study looked at the changes in bone strength, or bone mineral density (BMD), in patients with a medical condition called primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) before and after they had surgery to remove their parathyroid glands (parathyroidectomy).

The researchers studied two groups of patients with PHPT - those who had symptoms (28 people) and those who didn’t (63 people). They found that people with symptoms were more likely to have kidney stones and weaker bones in their lower back (lumbar spine) and hip (femoral neck) compared to those without symptoms.

One year after the surgery, those with symptoms saw a bigger decrease in the number of people with weak bones in the lower back, hip, and overall hip area compared to those without symptoms. They also saw a bigger increase in bone strength in the lower back and hip.

In simple terms, the study found that surgery to remove the parathyroid glands resulted in more improvement in bone strength in the lower back and hip in patients with PHPT who had symptoms compared to those who didn’t have symptoms, one year after the surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is primary hyperparathyroidism and how does it affect bone strength?
  2. How does parathyroidectomy surgery impact patients with primary hyperparathyroidism with and without symptoms?
  3. Did the study find any difference in bone strength improvement between patients with symptoms and those without symptoms after parathyroidectomy surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about parathyroidectomy is to follow up regularly with bone density scans to monitor any changes in bone strength after surgery. This can help track improvements and ensure that the bones are getting stronger over time. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, as well as engaging in regular weight-bearing exercise, can also help support bone health and recovery after parathyroidectomy.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended parathyroidectomy are those with primary hyperparathyroidism who have symptoms such as kidney stones or weak bones in the lower back and hip. These patients may benefit from surgery to remove the parathyroid glands in order to improve their bone strength and overall health.

Timeline

Before parathyroidectomy:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, kidney stones, and bone pain
  • Diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) through blood tests and imaging studies
  • Consultation with an endocrinologist and surgeon to discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative preparation including blood work, imaging studies, and medication adjustments

After parathyroidectomy:

  • Surgery to remove the parathyroid glands is performed
  • Recovery period in the hospital for monitoring and pain management
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and endocrinologist to monitor calcium levels and overall health
  • Improvement in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and bone pain
  • Improvement in bone strength, particularly in the lower back and hip, as seen in bone mineral density tests
  • Long-term monitoring for potential complications and recurrence of PHPT.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with parathyroidectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after parathyroidectomy surgery?
  3. Will I need to take any medication or supplements after the surgery?
  4. How will the surgery affect my calcium levels and overall bone health?
  5. Will I need any follow-up appointments or tests after the surgery?
  6. What lifestyle changes should I make to support my bone health post-surgery?
  7. How will parathyroidectomy surgery affect my risk for kidney stones in the future?
  8. Will I need any physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  9. What are the long-term effects of parathyroidectomy on my overall health and well-being?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with parathyroidectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Çalişkan M, Beysel S, Kizilgül M, Özbek M, Çakal E. Journal: Turk J Med Sci. 2019 Dec 16;49(6):1674-1680. doi: 10.3906/sag-1904-49. PMID: 31655512