Background: Narrow-band imaging uses selective haemoglobin light absorption to emphasise vascular visualisation and capillary networks.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the application of this technique to parathyroid surgery.
Method: This preliminary evaluation was carried out on five consecutive patients with single parathyroid adenoma being considered for minimally invasive video-assisted parathyroidectomy. The adenomas were checked for narrow-band imaging vascular patterns. Minimally invasive video-assisted parathyroidectomy was then carried out in accordance with our standard protocol.
Results: In four out of the five cases, narrow-band imaging integrated the white endoscopic light and direct vision, but in one case narrow-band imaging allowed distinction between the hidden neoplastic tissue and the surrounding structures thanks to the different vascular patterns.
Conclusion: Narrow-band imaging was helpful in properly identifying adenoma. It is suggested that this technique be considered as a means for surgeons to improve their confidence in selected surgical treatments and to improve treatment quality.
Keywords: Endoscopy; Narrow Band Imaging; Parathyroid Neoplasms; Video-Assisted Surgery.