Hypocalcemia following total thyroidectomy for benign goitre

Abstract

Thyroidectomy has a complication rate lower than 5%. Most frequently, postoperative hypocalcemia has been observed. the aim of the present study was to assess Hypocalcemia following total thyroidectomy for benign goiter in head, neck, endocrine surgery unit at Alexandria main university hospital. Post-thyroidectomy hypocalcaemia (PTHC) is a recognised postoperative complication with potential wide-ranging implications and healthcare costs. Hypocalcaemia can be asymptomatic; however, clinical manifestations such as paraesthesia and muscle spasms can be distressing for the patient, while persistent untreated hypocalcaemia can be life threatening. Thyroid surgery (total or near total thyroidectomy) can lead to serious complications, including transient or permanent vocal cord palsy or severe bleeding. However, hypocalcemia is the most frequent complication after thyroid surgery. Transient hypocalcemia frequently complicates postoperative care of patients who have undergone thyroid surgery. Post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia arises because of parathyroid removal, devascularization and damage which induce a state of transient (or permanent) hypoparathyroidism. Additional mechanisms, such as vitamin D deficiency, an acute increase in calcitonin serum levels (because of gland handling during surgery) or an “hungry bone syndrome” are believed to contribute to this process.