Thoracoscopic resection of ectopic parathyroid glands

Ann Thorac Surg. 2000 Jan;69(1):221-3. doi: 10.1016/s0003-4975(99)01127-3.

Abstract

Background: The vast majority of parathyroid glands in hyperparathyroidism can be resected through a cervical approach. In approximately 2% of the cases, the ectopic gland is in the mediastinum in a location that requires a thoracic approach.

Methods: We report 7 such cases that were resected using video-assisted thoracic surgery to avoid the need for an open surgical procedure.

Results: All glands were successfully identified preoperatively and subsequently resected. Hospital stay averaged less than 3 days with only one minor complication.

Conclusions: Ectopic mediastinal parathyroid glands may be safely and accurately resected using video-assisted thoracic surgery to avoid open approaches.

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma / surgery
  • Adult
  • Choristoma / surgery*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Hyperparathyroidism / surgery
  • Hyperparathyroidism, Secondary / surgery
  • Length of Stay
  • Male
  • Mediastinal Diseases / surgery*
  • Middle Aged
  • Parathyroid Glands*
  • Parathyroid Neoplasms / surgery
  • Parathyroidectomy
  • Safety
  • Thoracic Surgery, Video-Assisted*